Leyton Orient have rejected a £1.5 million bid from Charlton Athletic for midfield talisman Ethan Galbraith, with multiple Championship clubs now circling the Northern Ireland international.
Galbraith, 24, starred for Richie Wellens’ side throughout the 2024/25 League One campaign and played a key role in their run to the play-off final—where ironically they were beaten by Nathan Jones’ Charlton side at Wembley. Despite the loss, Orient remain determined not to part with one of their prized assets unless the price is right.
Charlton’s offer, understood to be worth around £1.5 million, was swiftly turned down, as Orient weigh up whether to cash in or retain Galbraith for another promotion push. Interest is reportedly not limited to Charlton, with Sheffield United and Swansea City among the clubs closely monitoring the situation.
Galbraith at Leyton Orient
Galbraith joined Orient last summer following his release from Manchester United and quickly became a central figure in Wellens’ midfield. His composure, passing range and international pedigree—he has seven senior caps for Northern Ireland—made him one of League One’s standout performers.
Wellens has been vocal in his belief that Galbraith is destined for the top flight, stating earlier this season that he felt the player would be ready for the Premier League soon. The midfielder’s stock rose further with his composed performances during Orient’s play-off run, and his ability to dictate tempo from deep has not gone unnoticed among scouts higher up the footballing pyramid.
A move to Charlton would represent a dramatic switch following the clubs’ battle at Wembley, but with the Addicks now back in the Championship under Jones’ stewardship, they are looking to strengthen their squad with proven talent. Galbraith’s development in the United system and experience in England and internationally ticks many boxes.
However, Orient are not under pressure to sell and believe Galbraith’s value exceeds the initial offer, especially with multiple clubs now expressing interest. Should Galbraith choose to stay, he would remain central to the club’s ambitions of bouncing back from their Wembley heartbreak and mounting another challenge in League One.
Writer’s View
Charlton’s rejected bid for Ethan Galbraith confirms what many already knew—he’s one of the most sought-after players outside the Championship. Leyton Orient’s stance is understandable; players with Galbraith’s class, composure and international pedigree don’t come around often, and £1.5 million may simply not reflect his true worth.
Whether he moves now or later, his trajectory looks certain to take him to the second tier—and perhaps eventually the Premier League. For now, Orient are right to hold firm and demand a premium.
