League One side eyeing ambitious summer move for ex-Portsmouth favourite Conor Chaplin after Ipswich Town exit
Former Pompey favourite Conor Chaplin is continuing his search for a new club this summer following his Ipswich Town release.
Conor Chaplin is the subject of reported interest from ambitious Oxford United.
The 29-year-old is on the hunt for a new club this summer following his disappointing season-long loan stay at Fratton Park.
The forward was subsequently released by Ipswich Town at the end of the campaign after their promotion to the Premier League.
Another Fratton Park homecoming has already been ruled out this summer, with the ex-Coventry City and Barnsley man also believed to be on the radar of Derby County.
League One side reportedly interested in ex-Pompey favourite
However, the Worthing-born talent does apparently have interest from League One.
A fresh report from Sports Boom has claimed Oxford United are ‘monitoring’ Chaplin, but do face strong competition for his services.
The article claims the Us have expressed an interest in the attacker as they plot an audacious move to bolster their promotion hopes next term.
Matt Bloomfield’s side, of course, suffered Championship relegation last season, finishing four points from safety in 22nd. It marks a first return to the third tier since their play-off winning campaign in 2024.
Conor Chaplin’s unsuccessful Pompey homecoming
Chaplin sealed his emotional Fratton homecoming in September 2025, penning a season-long loan from Ipswich Town.
The forward made his career breakthrough at PO4, netting 25 goals and collecting seven assists in 122 outings in all competitions following his 2015 debut.
But his second spell on the south coast would prove difficult, despite hopes his arrival could help John Mousinho’s men progress in the Championship.
That wouldn’t prove to be the case, however, with Chaplin scoring just two goals and provided three assists in 37 appearances as the Blues finished 18th in the standings.
Conor Chaplin on his future
Chaplin’s Ipswich departure was announced soon after their promotion back to the Premier League was confirmed.
He said: ‘There's a few things in the background, but I'm not going to go with anything without waiting a little bit and seeing what's there.’
‘I'm obviously sad to leave Ipswich and all the relationships I’ve got there, but nothing lasts forever. I feel very blessed and grateful that I've had five years of incredible memories and relationships.
‘Now I’m excited for the next chapter. I’ll go all in on that and see where it takes me.’