Oxford United are set to sign right-back David Hunt after the defender’s contract at Crawley Town was terminated by mutual consent. The 30-year-old, who can also play in midfield, still had one year remaining on his current deal at the Broadfield Stadium, but boss Richie Barker has decided to release Hunt from his contract in order for Hunt to find a new club this summer.

Hunt made 28 appearances for Division Three side Crawley last season, and has played over 90 games for the Red Devils since joining from Brentford back in 2011. The tough defender had a pivotal role in Crawley’s incredible successive promotions from the Conference and Division Four, and was part of the side which reached the FA Cup fifth round before losing out to Premier League champions Manchester United.

The former Northampton Town and Leyton Orient defender will become United’s second summer signing after the arrival of AFC Bournemouth’s Jonathan Meades last month.

Despite leaving Crawley a year earlier than expected, Hunt has no hard feelings: “I’m not leaving on bad terms and I would only ever have good things to say about the club.

“There have been so many highlights and it is difficult to pick one when you have been involved in back-to-back promotions and played at Old Trafford in the FA Cup.

“To be part of a club that has risen from non-league to be an established League One team has been one of the most rewarding periods of my career and I am proud to have played my part.”