Oxford have signed Northern Ireland international midfielder Jamie McDonnell from Nottingham Forest on a permanent deal.

McDonnell is the U's second arrival since the appointment of head coach Matt Bloomfield, following the signing of Brentford's Yunus Konak on loan.

The 21-year-old, who spent the first half of the season on loan to Mansfield - where he scored twice in 19 League One appearances - could make his debut in Tuesday's Championship game at home to QPR.

Bloomfield said:, external "At every level he's played, he's stepped up and shown maturity, authority and a real understanding of the game that goes beyond his age.

"He has excellent quality in midfield, a strong work ethic and a real desire to improve. He's already gained valuable experience and we believe he has a very big future here."

McDonnell, who has two senior international caps, was on loan to Colchester last season and was named Young Player of the Year at the League Two club.