Oxford United star leaves Club after shocking fall out with club’s new manager Aaron Ramsey
Oxford United Confirms Departure as Star Completes Permanent Move to Polish Side
Oxford United have officially confirmed that striker Nik Prelec has completed a permanent transfer to Polish top-flight club Jagiellonia Białystok, bringing his brief spell at the Kassam Stadium to an end.
The Slovenian forward leaves the U’s after just over a year with the club, having initially arrived on loan before his move was made permanent earlier this year.
The transfer has been completed for an undisclosed fee, with both clubs agreeing not to reveal the financial details of the deal.
Loan Move Turned Permanent
Prelec first joined Oxford United during the summer of 2025 as the club looked to strengthen its attacking options ahead of the Championship campaign.
The 24-year-old arrived with experience from several European leagues and was viewed as a striker capable of adding physicality, movement and technical quality to United’s forward line.
Although opportunities were sometimes limited, Oxford were impressed enough by his potential and professionalism to activate the purchase option included in his loan agreement.
The club confirmed his permanent signing in February, committing the Slovenian to a longer stay at the Kassam Stadium.
Time at Oxford United
During his spell with Oxford, Prelec made 19 first-team appearances across all competitions.
His only goal for the club came in memorable fashion during a 3-1 Championship victory over Bristol City, where he found the net to help United secure three valuable points.
While he was unable to establish himself as a regular starter, Prelec remained a committed member of the squad and offered valuable depth throughout the campaign.
His work rate and willingness to contribute whenever called upon earned praise from supporters, even if his minutes on the pitch were relatively limited.
With competition for places increasing and opportunities expected to become even more restricted next season, all parties have now agreed that a fresh start is the best solution.
New Chapter in Poland
Prelec now joins Jagiellonia Białystok, one of Poland’s established Ekstraklasa clubs, where he will hope to enjoy more consistent first-team football.
The move represents an opportunity for the Slovenian international to revive his career and rediscover the goalscoring form that previously attracted attention from clubs across Europe.
Jagiellonia have strengthened their squad ahead of the new season and believe Prelec can provide additional quality in attack as they compete domestically and in European competition.
Oxford Continue Squad Reshuffle
Prelec’s departure forms part of Oxford United’s ongoing summer squad restructuring.
The club has already seen several players leave as preparations continue for the new Championship season, with head coach Aaron Ramsey and the recruitment team working to reshape the squad.
However, Oxford’s transfer plans have recently been complicated after the club was placed under a temporary registration embargo.
The sanction means the U’s are currently unable to register any new signings—including permanent transfers, loan arrivals and free agents—until the January transfer window unless the issue is resolved.
While the embargo does not prevent the club from negotiating transfers or allowing players to leave, it significantly limits their ability to strengthen the squad in the short term.
Supporters will therefore be hoping the situation is resolved quickly to avoid disrupting preparations for the upcoming campaign.
Prelec’s Career Before Oxford
Before arriving in England, Prelec built valuable experience across several European leagues.
He spent time with Austrian Bundesliga side WSG Tirol, where his performances attracted wider attention before earning a move to Italian football.
The striker was also on the books of Serie A clubs Sampdoria and Cagliari, gaining experience in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues while continuing his development.
His move to Oxford United represented his first spell in English football, and although his time at the club proved relatively short, he leaves with the gratitude of the club and supporters for his professionalism.
Best Wishes from Oxford United
Oxford United have thanked Prelec for his efforts during his time at the club and wished him every success in the next chapter of his career in Poland.
As for Prelec, he will now look to make an immediate impact with Jagiellonia Białystok and establish himself as a key figure in their attack as the new season gets underway.