Former West Ham star Reece Oxford wanted on loan by Luton as Hatters try and beat Middlesbrough to Augsburg defender

LUTON TOWN have contacted Augsburg about taking Reece Oxford on loan.

They have moved quickly in an attempt to steal a march on Middlesbrough who have also been tracking the former West Ham star.

Oxford, 21, had been linked with a move to Dutch side VVV-Venlo earlier this month, but is now wanted by the two Championship clubs.

The versatile Londoner, who can play in midfield or central defence, had been earmarked as one of the best English talents of his generation after producing a stunning display on his Premier League debut against Arsenal.

But he has struggled to kick on since then despite making loan moves to the Bundesliga with Borussia Monchengladbach and Augsburg.

The 21-year-old impressed on a loan last season enough for Augsburg to take him on a permanent basis last summer.

However, he has made just eight appearances this campaign.

Oxford believes he needs regular first team football to kick-start the development in his game which has stalled over the last few years.

Middlesbrough boss Jonathan Woodgate revealed he was interested in adding another central defender and said he could add "one or two" players this month.

Speaking after defeat to Fulham on Friday night, He said: “How many more signings would we like to make? I’ve no idea. Maybe one or two, let’s see.

"But tonight, I would love to have played a four at the back because you’ve got two full-backs looking after their winger and two v one at centre-half, but I’ve only got one fit centre-half."