Charlton Athletic’s dream summer transfer window includes a Nathan Jones reunion and a familiar face.

Charlton Athletic enters a new era of Championship football as the summer transfer market reopens.

Charlton Athletic earned a dramatic promotion via the League One play-offs on May 25, 2025, with a hard-fought victory over Leyton Orient at Wembley Stadium. The Addicks are working to construct a competitive group under manager Nathan Jones, who just signed a new long-term contract after receiving substantial interest from rival clubs. Jones has already stated that negotiations about potential transfer targets are well underway, and a busy summer of recruitment is expected at The Valley. The club’s owners and new CEO Dane Murphy are planning a ‘five-year project’ as they aim for a good season.

With this increased ambition, with Charlton on track to generate £20 million in revenue following promotion, we’ve looked at what a perfect summer transfer window would look like for the Addicks.

The return of a familiar face for Charlton fans

Anfernee Dijksteel, a familiar face among Charlton fans, is available on a free transfer after being released by Middlesbrough. The 28-year-old previously helped the Addicks achieve promotion in 2019 and will provide crucial Championship experience. He’s a versatile defender who can play either right or centre back. His connection with the club and its objectives may allow him to return to The Valley, bolstering Nathan Jones’ defensive options.

Nathan Jones to reunite with Luton player

Charlton’s manager has a history of bringing in players he has previously worked with, and Jordan Clark from Luton Town would be an excellent signing. The 31-year-old midfielder, who worked under Jones throughout Luton’s rise, has a great work ethic and a keen eye for goal from midfield. He scored six goals and provided six assists in the Championship this season, despite Luton’s relegation from the Premier League. His experience and grasp of Jones’ system make him an excellent pick.

Young Tottenham midfielder to join

While Jones typically prefers permanent signings, a loan signing could be advantageous. Jamie Donley, a young 20-year-old Tottenham Hotspur midfielder, had a great loan spell at Leyton Orient last season, scoring eight goals and providing ten assists in League One. With Luke Berry turning 33 and Alex Gilbert returning to Middlesbrough, Charlton may profit from Donley’s attacking ability. If Charlton can capitalise on their London position, a loan move for the Northern Ireland international could be a wise decision.

Charlton Athletic players to leave this summer.

Charlton Athletic’s promotion to the Championship heralds a roster revamp, with some players expected to leave as Nathan Jones seeks to construct a competitive team for the top flight. Chuks Aneke, 31, a veteran striker with a history of injuries and an expiring contract, is a good candidate for release. It seems unlikely that the club will give fresh contracts. Similarly, right-back Tennai Watson, 28, who is out of contract in June 2025, has struggled with injuries and contention for a starting berth, leaving his future questionable as Charlton seeks more robust options.