3 centre-backs Charlton Athletic must eye as League One rivals target key player
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Charlton Athletic are in for an important January window and centre-back Lloyd Jones is claimed to be attracting transfer interest.
Charlton Athletic boast a well-stocked squad after both a busy and expensive summer transfer window, but it hasn’t inspired a strong season as hoped for the Addicks.
They sit in an underwhelming 12th place in the League One table. The pivotal winter schedule lays ahead though and there is ample time for Nathan Jones to turn things around and lift his side into play-off contention.
However, they could be facing winter interest in a key player, with reports stating over the weekend that league leaders Wycombe Wanderers are interested in powerful centre-back Lloyd Jones.
An exit for the former Liverpool youngster would likely leave Charlton Athletic in need of a replacement. Here, we pick out three central defenders the South Londoners would be wise to keep in mind amid rumours of a Chairboys swoop for Jones…
Patrick Bauer – Preston North End
It has been over five years since German powerhouse Bauer left Charlton Athletic to join Preston North End but the centre-back has been down the pecking order at Deepdale for some time. As such, an exit when his deal expires next summer seems highly likely.
However, perhaps a January move could allow Bauer to start again a little sooner.
He’d be a seriously physical presence at the back for the Addicks once and could be tempted by the opportunity to return to The Valley after a tough time in Lancashire over the past couple of seasons.
Ed Turns – Brighton
As a bit of a difference option to Bauer, Brighton youngster Ed Turns is a more up and coming player who could have a positive impact with Charlton Athletic right off the bat. However, importantly, he’s someone with plenty of developing still to do, making him a financial asset too.
The 22-year-old has gained good EFL experience in loans with Leyton Orient and Crewe Alexandra but with senior opportunities eluding him back at Brighton, he could benefit from a move elsewhere.
He too sees his deal expire in 2025, so a move wouldn’t break the bank for the Addicks.
Richard Taylor – St. Mirren
Last but not least is Richard Taylor, who is starring in Scotland after bouncing around clubs somewhat in recent seasons. He spent time with Burnley in his youth before two years at Southend United, but after being let go in 2021 and spending a short spell out of the game, he found his feet in strong stays at Dagenham and Redbridge and in Ireland with Waterford.
Now playing regularly in the Scottish Premiership, Taylor is a favourite at St. Mirren and calls for him to sign a new contract with the club are growing.
The 24-year-old’s situation should put a club like Charlton Athletic on alert as they brace for winter interest in Lloyd Jones.
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