JOEL Cooper is in a hurry to impress Oxford United as his move from Linfield appears to get closer.

It is understood a bid for the 24-year-old has been accepted by the Irish League club, who have won the title in the two seasons Cooper has been at the club.

Personal terms still have to be agreed, but the winger appears to have his heart set on a move.

He told the Belfast Telegraph: "I am looking forward to getting the deal across the line and can't wait to make the move to Oxford United to repay the faith they have shown in me.

"It would be a step up to another level but if the deal goes through, I feel I can prove myself at that level.

"I have worked hard to get where I am and that hard work will never stop in my aim to be the best I can be for my team.

"I feel I have improved as a player since joining Linfield and I must thank the manager David Healy, the staff and my team-mates for that and also the fans."

United chairman Sumrith 'Tiger' Thanakarnjanasuth has said the club are looking to tie up deals in the next few days for more than one target.

If the deal is completed, Cooper would be the third player United had bought from Northern Ireland in two years.

Gavin Whyte, who is now at Cardiff City, and Mark Sykes have both handled the move well and gone on to earn call-ups for the senior international side.

Cooper said: "Gavin and Mark have gone to Oxford and shown that there is real quality in the Irish League and I want to follow in their footsteps and do well for the club. I believe I can do that."