Nathan Jones Resents Birmingham; Leicester Transfer Update Contrasts with Kelman’s Stance

Charlton Athletic is currently facing challenges in the Championship. After a promising start, the team finds itself battling against relegation. Nathan Jones, the team’s manager, has seen his squad struggle to score consistently. They began the season strong following their promotion, secured through a League play-off final win against Leyton Orient in May, where defender Macaulay Gillesphey netted the only goal.

Nathan Jones Resents Birmingham; Leicester Transfer Update

Scoring has become a significant issue for Charlton, with Sonny Carey leading as the top scorer with just five goals. The need for a striker with Championship experience has become urgent as Charlie Kelman, with four goals, has not performed to expectations. Recent developments indicate that Lyndon Dykes, currently at Birmingham City, is a potential target for Charlton.

Birmingham’s Transfer Considerations

• Birmingham City is reportedly delaying Dykes’ transfer until a replacement is secured.
• Leicester City and Ipswich Town are also showing interest in Dykes, complicating Charlton’s pursuit.

Charlie Kelman may find solace in the fact that Leicester’s interest in Dykes could lead to increased competition in the forward section. The Daily Mail has reported that Marti Cifuentes, Leicester’s manager, previously managed Dykes at QPR and desires to reunite with him.

Kelman’s Performance and Future

Kelman, despite a successful loan at Leyton Orient during the 2024/25 season, has struggled this year with four goals in 18 Championship appearances. He has only started 13 matches this season, leading to questions about his place on the team. If Charlton fails to secure additional attacking talent this winter, the pressure will intensify on Kelman to perform.

Charlton’s hope rests on Kelman’s ability to find rhythm in the second half of the season. At 24 years old, he possesses the skills necessary to thrive in the Championship. His expected goals (xG) rate currently stands at 2.91, indicating that he needs better chances created by teammates. His best performances have come when utilized off the ball, similar to his time at Leyton Orient.

As the threat of relegation looms over Charlton Athletic, the club remains hopeful for the arrival of Dykes. A partnership between Dykes and Kelman could potentially strengthen their attacking lineup. However, with interest from Leicester and Ipswich, time is of the essence for Charlton.