Charlton Athletic have confirmed the signing of former Luton Town defender Amari’i Bell following his departure from Kenilworth Road.
The experienced Jamaican international has agreed a two-year deal with the newly promoted Championship side as Nathan Jones continues to reshape his squad.
Bell Reunites With Jones in Championship Return
Bell, 31, becomes Charlton’s fourth summer signing following the arrivals of Sonny Carey, Thomas Kaminski and Tanto Olaofe. The versatile defender links up again with Jones, who previously brought him to Luton in 2021. Together, they helped guide the Hatters to Premier League promotion in 2023, with Bell playing a key role on the left side of a back three.
Now, after Luton’s relegation and the expiry of his contract, Bell joins a Charlton side determined to re-establish themselves in the second tier. His experience will be vital. Bell has racked up more than 200 appearances across the Championship and Premier League, and featured 21 times in the top flight last season before being part of a squad that endured a turbulent return to League One.
Jones, speaking to the club website, was delighted to be reunited with a player he trusts and values.
“Amari’i’s someone I know well. I signed him at Luton and he did fantastically well for me. He knows how I want to play, he has Championship and Premier League experience, and he’s a wonderful athlete with pace and power. He will add to the group and we’re really delighted because left-sided centre-halves are very difficult to come by.”
Bell echoed the excitement, describing the move as a fresh start at a club that is “on the way back up.”
“It’s another chance to work with Nathan who is a great manager that knows how to get the best out of his players, and he certainly does for me. It’s going to be a great time.”
A former Birmingham City academy graduate, Bell rose to prominence at Fleetwood Town before a successful spell at Blackburn Rovers. He was named in the 2017/18 PFA League One Team of the Year and seamlessly adapted to Championship football with Rovers and later Luton.
Internationally, Bell has won 28 caps for Jamaica and scored in last month’s Concacaf Gold Cup match against Panama. His addition adds leadership, athleticism, and versatility to a Charlton defence in need of Championship-ready options.
Writer’s View
This is a hugely important signing for Charlton. In Amari’i Bell, they’ve added a proven Championship performer who brings both defensive steel and composure on the ball. Reuniting with Nathan Jones is a major bonus too — there’s familiarity and mutual trust. With plenty of miles still left in his legs and a clear point to prove after Luton’s relegation, Bell could be one of the smartest free transfers of the summer.
