Oxford United are believed to be in the race for James Hunt's signature - but boss Ian Atkins may need to move at motor racing speed to get the midfield dynamo.

The Northampton Town player, who has the same name as the former Formula 1 world champion, is being coveted by several clubs, including QPR.

Hunt, who scored one of the goals when the Cobblers beat Oxford United 2-0 in the LDV Vans Trophy last season, is out of contract at Sixfields, and Northampton have offered him a new two-year deal.

The 25-year-old has several offers on the table and wants to make a decision soon.

It is understood Atkins has had talks with the player, whom he knows from his own days at Northampton, but any go-ahead will depend on chairman Firoz Kassam.

However, United, who have cut a massive chunk of their wage bill by offloading nine senior players, are expected to try to start getting new players in soon to try to boost season-ticket sales.

It was Atkins who took Derby-born Hunt to Northampton from Notts County in 1997 after he had made 24 appearances for the Meadow Lane club.

Meanwhile, United have confirmed they will be playing a pre-season friendly at Conference club Nuneaton Borough on Thursday, July 25 (7.45).

They will also take on Derby County, who were relegated from the Premiership last season, in a behind-closed-doors friendly on Saturday, July 20.