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Tottenham supporters are furious after academy talent Jamie Donley was sent on loan to Oxford United with a permanent purchase option included in the deal.

Donley enjoyed a standout spell at Leyton Orient last season, scoring eight goals and providing 11 assists in his first loan away from Spurs, performances that quickly raised his profile.

His form in League One attracted interest from several Championship clubs ahead of this season, and in August he joined Stoke City. The Northern Ireland playmaker made a positive start by registering an assist on his debut, but for reasons that were never made clear, his involvement soon became extremely limited.

The 21-year-old last featured for Stoke on 21 October, prompting Tottenham to recall him early on New Year’s Day before arranging another loan move, this time to fellow Championship side Oxford United.

During his time at the bet365 Stadium, Stoke manager Mark Robins handed Donley just six substitute appearances, only two of which were starts. A recall appeared unavoidable, especially with Bolton Wanderers previously linked, but Donley has remained in the second tier with his switch to Oxford.

Oxford confirmed the move on 2 January via their X account, announcing: “Welcome, Jamie Donley. We are delighted to announce the signing of Jamie Donley on loan with a permanent option.”

Spurs fans have long rated Donley highly, with many believing he had the potential to become the next academy graduate to establish himself in the first team. However, the inclusion of a buy option in the Oxford deal has sparked anger among supporters, as it opens the door for him to leave the club permanently if he excels.

Oxford are currently without a manager following Gary Rowett’s dismissal and sit 23rd in the Championship, facing a serious relegation battle. That context has only intensified fan frustration.

Reacting on X, one supporter wrote: “Why would we include a permanent option? This club is stupid.” Another added: “Stupid, stupid, stupid decision. Donley’s got talent. He could’ve been the one to break through, and we give a side likely to be relegated a chance to sign him permanently.”

A third fan summed up the mood by saying: “Every day this club finds a new way to depress me. We bring players through the academy, then block their path with average signings. How is this club meant to build any identity?”