Charlton Athletic beat Championship clubs to bargain midfielder deal

06/17/2024 07:15 AM

Charlton Athletic boss Nathan Jones says the Addicks have ‘fought off a lot of Championship interest’ to sign Luke Berry on a free transfer.

Charlton Athletic were linked with midfielder Berry earlier this summer as Nathan Jones looks to enjoy a fruitful first transfer window in charge at The Valley.

Luton Town confirmed the long-serving star, who was signed by Jones at Kenilworth Road, would be moving on after the expiry of his contract. Plenty of clubs were subsequently linked, with Football Insider stating QPR, Watford and unnamed MLS sides were keen.

However, it’s the Addicks who have won the race for Berry.

Charlton Athleticconfirmed his signing on Monday, and Jones didn’t hesitate to make it known that they’ve fended off some strong interest for his signature.

The Welshman told the club’s official website that Championship sides have missed out on the 31-year-old midfielder as a result of their successful swoop. He said:

“His last appearance was in the Premier League and his next appearance is going to be for Charlton Athletic, so that’s the type of calibre that we want to attract.

“We’ve fought off a lot of Championship interest for Luke.”

A statement signing

There’s no hiding that this is a statement signing for Charlton Athletic.

Yes, had Berry remained with Luton Town, he would be in the Championship for the new season. However, having spent the 2023/24 campaign in the Premier League, it’s a seriously eye-catching move from Jones and co to bring him to The Valley.

It’s no surprise that the midfielder had options in the Championship either. It’s a level he’s performed at before to great success and his top-flight experience will only add further pedigree to his name.

Nevertheless, he heads down to League One to reunite with Jones. Berry will be a fantastic option as an attack-minded midfielder for Charlton Athletic as they look to push up the division next season.

The hopes for next season

Jones led an impressive turnaround with a squad he inherited upon taking over in February.

He has really shifted the mood in South London and having worked so well with another manager’s squad, there’s real excitement over what Charlton Athletic can do when Jones has had a chance to shape the ranks to his liking.

The summer transfer window offers that opportunity, and a move for Berry is a real statement to the rest of the league. It should boost their lofty aims for next season further with the fight for promotion looking set to be very open.

Time will tell just who comes through the door next, but the Berry signing marks a major coup for the Addicks.

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