Blackpool could offer Jordan Thorniley to Oxford United on a permanent basis in their bid to get a deal for Cameron Brannagan over the line, according to reports.

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The Seasiders continue to be strongly linked to central midfielder Brannagan, a former Fleetwood Town loanee.

Oxford have confirmed that a bid for the 25-year-old, reported to be from the Seasiders, has been rejected.

Jordan Thorniley has made 23 appearances for Oxford on loan from Blackpool

placeholder image — Jordan Thorniley has made 23 appearances for Oxford on loan from Blackpool

It is now being suggested that centre-back Thorniley could be offered to the League One club in a player-plus-cash deal.

Thorniley is on a season-long loan at Oxford and has made 23 appearances since his move at the start of August. The 25-year-old has featured in 19 of this season's 25 League One games.

Cheshire-born Thorniley, signed from Sheffield Wednesday two years ago, will be out of contract at Blackpool this summer, though the club have the option to extend his deal by a further 12 months.

Oxford boss Karl Robinson has criticised Brannagan's agent for bypassing him in an attempt to force a move through.

The player stared Saturday's league game at Lincoln City but was forced off injured.

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