Update Emerges On Charlton Athletic Pursuit Of League One Striker

Charlton Athletic have submitted bids for Peterborough United striker Jonson Clarke-Harris but remain a “long way short” in their valuation, according to Darragh MacAnthony on X.

News emerged yesterday that Charlton Athletic, along with League Two promotion hopefuls Wrexham were considering a move for Posh forward Jonson Clarke-Harris. Posh chairman Darragh MacAnthony took to X to answer a question regarding the accuracy of the rumours, confirming that the League One club were, in fact, interested, but there was a distance between the two clubs’ valuations.

“They have made few bids but a long way short pal so who knows. Cheers.” 

The 29-year-old’s contract is due to expire at the end of the season, having been placed on the transfer list in the summer, as the club continue to follow their strategy of selling players in the final year of their contracts. Joey Barton’s Bristol Rovers were keen on the player, but a deadline day move fell through after paperwork was submitted late. The Gas is understood to be no longer interested after sacking the former Burnley midfielder, leaving Clarke-Harris free to move elsewhere.

In the 22/23 season, the striker finished the League One top scorer with 27 goals in the season. Returning manager Darren Ferguson looked to change the club’s approach for a more pacey, dynamic attacking lineup, something that Clarke-Harris didn’t fit into. He has largely had to settle for a supporting role for the Posh as they aim to return to the Championship once again.

Darragh went on to answer a further question on the player’s valuation disputing that they were being unreasonable with their pricing. 

“Hey Fred, no we aren’t being unreasonable in our expectations for him but the current bids I wouldn’t entertain. Goal scorers cost money at most levels. All the best.”

Writer’s View

Peterborough have never sold cheap, they have almost become a factory of talent. They take risks on younger more unproven players then sell them on for big money. Whilst Jonson Clarke-Harris doesn’t fit this category, they are still looking to sell him despite being the league’s top scorer which should demonstrate the club’s strategy.