Peterborough United forward Jonson Clarke-Harris is still hesitating over his expected transfer to Charlton Athletic, despite a ‘generous salary package’ from the Addicks.
The 29-year-old has been on the transfer list for some time, and Posh are eager to move him on before the end of the window with six months left on his contract.
The Peterborough Telegraph reported that whilst Clarke-Harris’ agents have made progress with the Greenwich club, the Jamaican could be holding out for better offers throughout the January transfer window.
Both sides reportedly agreed to a deal last week, with the Telegraph estimating the fee being in the region of £500,000 whereas Transfermarkt estimate his market value at €900,000 (£770,000).
Peterborough’s number nine has had an illustrious spell at London Road, winning the Golden Boot in League One twice, and has contributed 10 goals in 24 appearances so far this season.
Manager Duncan Ferguson has confirmed that the club will be reducing Clarke-Harris’ minutes going forward. Speaking on his expected move, he added: “Johnno has not yet agreed personal terms and I’m not sure how long Charlton Athletic will wait.
“It’s up to Johnno what happens. It’s in his hands. He’s been fantastic for us, but he knows his playing time here will be limited now so he needs a fresh challenge.”
The striker has been the subject of a number of rumoured moves, with the Peterborough Telegraph also revealing that Gillingham have also pursued a move for his services. Similarly, fellow League Two side Wrexham have explored a deal, but have cooled their interest over recent weeks.
Posh travel to The Valley at the weekend, but Clarke-Harris will not be involved due to a calf injury.
Writer’s View
Jonson Clarke-Harris’ move away from Peterborough now seems inevitable, but the delay does raise some eyebrows. Charlton may not be in the running for promotion at the moment but always have the potential to challenge for it year after year. Adding one of League One’s prolific goalscorers to their side will only benefit them going into the future. It is interesting to see the striker’s hesitation, perhaps knowing that some other club could be coming in with a better offer may be the reason behind the delay.
Where Peterborough go after this move will be fascinating. Kwame Poku has also been the subject of a number of rumours about his future, so Posh may have to do an entire forward-line rebuild in this window. Luckily, chairman Darragh MacAnthony is open on social media about his team’s business. If the delay does break the deal with Charlton, an alternative option is keeping the Jamaican until the end of the season, coming at the cost of a fee as he will depart on a free transfer.
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