A new forward has to be the priority for Oxford United, if they are to challenge at the right end of the table in the coming campaign.

Under a fresh start under new Chairman ‎Sumrith Thanakarnjanasuth, Oxford will be needing new faces if they are to have a successful season next term.

Karl Robinson has begun his transfer business by bringing in exciting Non-League talent Cameron Norman from Kings Lynn Town, and midfielder Samir Carruthers on a season-long loan from Sheffield United.

Whilst these signings are a start, especially Carruthers who can expect to slot straight into Robinson's starting line up, particularly after Joe Rothwell's move to Blackburn Rovers was confirmed. Robinson will be hoping Curruthers can add some much needed creativity to the Kassam Stadium.

However, if Robinson is to improve on the Yellows 16th placed finish last time out, new forward options simply must be top of his shopping list this Summer.

Reliant on 31-year-old Wes Thomas to find the net last season, and an out-of-form Jonathan Obika who contributed just five league goals, Robinson will surely be aware of how great the need is for new blood.

Finding the solution to the problem will not be easy. A twenty-goal-a-season striker at League One level will likely not come cheap. Prolific forward Lyle Taylor, valued at £300,000 by Tranfermarkt, has been linked with a host of clubs, including division rivals Bristol Rovers. Oxford United fans will feel there is no reason the club shouldn't be in for a player of Taylor's calibre.

Alternatively, Cheltenham Town's Mohamad Eisa netted 25 times for the Robins last season. Whilst the Sudanese forward may command a relatively large fee, it is a price worth paying for a striker who knows where the net is.

Looking to League Two and Non-League stars to make the step up to League One football is a gamble which may provide the solution to the goal scoring problem.

Targeting players in good form last season, who look they could come to the Kassam and make an immediate impact, are a must for the U's if they are to transform.