Oxford United are eager to re-sign Sheffield United midfielder Alex Matos, but they are not alone in the race, with League One side Rotherham United also pushing hard to secure his services ahead of the transfer deadline.
The 21-year-old spent last season on loan at the Kassam Stadium, where he enjoyed a productive spell and left a strong impression on the club’s coaching staff. That successful stint has encouraged Oxford to explore the possibility of bringing him back for a second loan, with journalist Alan Nixon reporting via his Patreon account that the Yellows are keen to rekindle the relationship.
However, Oxford face stiff competition, as Rotherham United have also emerged as serious contenders. The Millers are currently battling to avoid relegation from League One and see Matos as a potential boost to their midfield as they look to improve their fortunes in the second half of the campaign.
Since completing a permanent move to Sheffield United last summer, Matos has found first-team opportunities limited, managing just a handful of appearances. With regular minutes hard to come by at Bramall Lane, the midfielder is understood to be open to a temporary move elsewhere in order to gain valuable game time before the end of the season.
Both Oxford and Rotherham are locked in relegation fights of their own. Oxford sit five points adrift of safety in the Championship, while Rotherham hover just above the League One relegation zone on goal difference. As a result, January has become a crucial period for both clubs as they look to strengthen their squads and give themselves the best possible chance of survival.
According to Nixon, Oxford are pushing to add their former loanee to bolster their midfield options, but Rotherham are equally determined and will do everything they can to win the battle for his signature before Monday’s deadline. Matos featured 21 times in all competitions for Oxford last season, yet has made only eight appearances for the Blades this term, making a loan move an attractive option for all involved.
From Matos’ perspective, a switch to Rotherham could arguably be the more suitable move. Although it would involve stepping down a division, the opportunity for consistent playing time may outweigh that drawback. Geographically, the move also makes sense, with Rotherham located just a short drive from Sheffield, allowing him to remain close to his parent club rather than relocating further afield to Oxford.
In addition, Oxford have already strengthened heavily in midfield during the current window, bringing in players such as Yunus Konak and Jamie McDonnell, while established figures like Cameron Brannagan remain key options. This increased competition could limit Matos’ chances of regular involvement.
Taking all factors into account, a loan move to Rotherham may offer Matos the best balance of proximity, opportunity, and playing time, potentially making it the most practical solution for both the player and Sheffield United as the season progresses.
