Charlton Athletic have entered the race against Championship opposition for in-demand Premier League winger Jesrun Rak-Sakyi from Crystal Palace, according to reports.
The situation surrounding the youngster’s future has been turbulent this summer with several Championship clubs vying for his signature on loan from the Premier League club. However, the story soon turned with top flight newcomers Southampton submitting a formal bid to secure the player on a permanent deal.
The initial bid of £7 million was rejected, but they are anticipated to return with a bid in the region of £12 million. Leeds United have been identified as one of the clubs tracking his situation and favour a loan deal for the talented winger.
They face competition however from Charlton Athletic, Sheffield United, Watford, Luton Town and QPR who have all shown an interest in a temporary move.
According to Pete O’Rourke, Crystal Palace favour a loan deal rather than a permanent deal as they believe the player has a big future ahead of him.
The Addicks’ interest is a clear demonstration of Nathan Jones’ ambition at the club as he aims for Championship ready stars. The player took League One by storm for Charlton in his loan spell there and his return would mark somewhat of a coup for the side. Since his time on loan he has had a significant spell on the sidelines with injury and through remaining in the Palace set up meaning he is in a position where he needs to regain his upwards momentum.
Can Charlton Athletic Pull Off This Coup?
More likely than not this deal is simply a case of “if you don’t ask you don’t get”. It has always been expected that the player would move to the Championship for this next stage of his development, but the time away from the football pitch may have presented an opportunity. However, the vast amount of heavy hitting Championship sides that are keen on a deal do indicate that it will be unlikely to happen. Especially if Southampton continue their pursuit of a permanent deal.
However, it could benefit the player to return to Charlton on loan, he is at a vital stage of his career and needs to reignite that flame he had at the Addicks, so where better to do that than his former club? They are looking in a much better position and likely to be competing in a strong League One at the right end of the table. It could be a case of “taking a step back to take a big step forward”.