Exclusive: Charlton Athletic Man Emerges As Target For League Two Promotion Hopefuls

League Two promotion hopefuls MK Dons are one of a number of teams interested in signing Charlton Athletic midfielder Jack Payne, sources have told The Real EFL.

The Addicks were one of the favourites to secure promotion to the Championship this season, but they have endured a horrific start to the campaign, winning one of their opening five fixtures. Saturday’s 2-1 defeat against Oxford United saw the club slip to 19th in the League One table and it was announced the following day that manager Dean Holden had been relieved of his duties.

 

Despite their lack of first team manager, there still could be transfer activity at The Valley this week in the form of departures. Midfielder Conor McGrandles is one name already linked with an exit, although the 27-year-old has struggled since his switch from Lincoln City last summer and spent the second half of the season on loan at Cambridge United.

The club are also willing to listen to offers for fellow midfielder Jack Payne, who has racked up 14 goal contributions in 54 appearances since joining from Swindon Town in July last year.

His availability has attracted the interest of MK Dons, who are looking to return to League One at the first time of asking following their relegation to the fourth tier last season. They have enjoyed an electric start to life in League Two though, winning four of their opening five fixtures and they currently top the table on goal difference.

Sources have informed The Real EFL’s Ryan Whelan that the Dons are ‘one of a few clubs’ interested in the 28-year-old.

Writer’s View

Jack Payne is a very able midfielder who would be a good signing for a number of League One and Two clubs. MK Dons will see him as a player capable of playing at a higher level should they achieve their goal of promotion this season, whilst there are sure to be several clubs in League One also contemplating a move.

The former Huddersfield Town man remains a popular figure at Swindon Town and Robins’ fans would no doubt jump at the chance to see their former player return to the County Ground.