Denis Smith last night ruled out a move for one of his former Oxford United favourites Paul Powell.

Former U's boss Smith, who has been appointed the new manager of second division strugglers Wrexham, made a move for Powell when he was in charge of West Bromwich Albion.

But although Powell is understood to be available for transfer at The Kassam Stadium after not featuring in United's starting line-up in their last 12 matches, Smith thought any move a non-starter.

"The problem is, I've got no money here," he candidly revealed. "I've got to wheel and deal to bring any players in."

United boss Mark Wright is believed to be looking to sell or offload Phil Gray, Rob Quinn and Powell to strengthen the team by bringing in players he has already lined up.

Those who cannot command a fee might be given away to get them off the wage bill.

But Powell, who two years ago was being watched by a number of Premiership clubs, and was at one stage rated in the £1m bracket, would surely still demand a fee.

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