Embargo pressures force Oxford United to lose Prelec to Poland

An ongoing English Football League embargo has left Oxford United scrambling for attacking options, and the club confirmed on Thursday that forward Nik Prelec has departed for Polish side Jagiellonia Białystok, a move completed for an undisclosed fee as the team seeks to rebuild its front line.

The club issued an official statement confirming the departure of the 25‑year‑old striker. The transfer was completed for an undisclosed fee, with both Oxford United and Jagiellonia Białystok keeping the financial terms private.

Prelec, a Slovenian forward, originally joined Oxford United on loan in the summer of 2025. The club exercised its option to make the deal permanent in February of the previous season, and he logged 25 appearances with one goal during his spell.

His exit widens the shortage in Oxford United’s forward line, as the English Football League embargo blocks any new summer registrations. The club now faces a depleted attacking roster with no immediate replacements allowed.

Oxford United hopes the embargo will be lifted by the January transfer window, which would permit squad adjustments. In the meantime, the focus remains on maintaining the existing group of players.

Jagiellonia Białystok adds the 25‑year‑old Slovenian striker to its roster, strengthening its attacking options. The Polish club also confirmed that the fee remained undisclosed.

Further updates were announced alongside a Getty Images] release that referenced Images, and supporters were directed to follow developments via BBC Sounds.