Oxford chase Taylor

The News understands Michael Appleton has tabled an offer to the striker who is out of contract this summer.

Taylor has been in fine form during the second half of the campaign, with 10 goals so far.

However, a groin injury forced him off in the first half of Tuesday night’s 1-0 defeat at Stevenage.

Regardless, the 26-year-old has been a rare positive in a hugely disappointing campaign and many fans would like him to remain with the Blues.

Taylor has already admitted his desire to stay, however the club have previously stated there will be no fresh deals until the season’s end.

Andy Awford had made no secret of wanting to retain the former Rotherham striker for next year and beyond, although his exit as boss has now changed that situation.

Whoever next arrives in the Fratton Park hot-seat will be required to make decisions over the futures of 11 out-of-contract players, including Taylor.

It remains to be seen whether the incoming manager will share the same views as the former regime over those players.

Others whose deals expire this summer include Dan Butler, Adam Webster, Nicky Shorey, Wes Fogden, Ben Chorley, Tom Craddock, Joe Devera and Danny East.

In addition, first-year pros Bradley Tarbuck and Ben Close are bidding to remain at the club.

Taylor, though, is already attracting interest having blazed seven goals in his last 13 matches.

Since arriving at Fratton Park in January 2014 under Richie Barker, he has netted 15 times in 59 appearances and under Awford captained the side.