Charlton Athletic have landed a major attacking coup with the signing of prolific striker Charlie Kelman from Queens Park Rangers.
The 23-year-old has joined the Addicks on a four-year contract after a blistering 2024/25 campaign at Leyton Orient, where he scored 27 goals in all competitions and won the League One Golden Boot.
Charlton Make a Statement With Key Signing
Kelman becomes Nathan Jones’ eighth signing of a busy summer, further strengthening a squad already buzzing with momentum after promotion. His arrival follows the captures of Sonny Carey, Thomas Kaminski, Tanto Olaofe, Amari’i Bell, Reece Burke, Joe Rankin-Costello and Rob Apter.
Manager Nathan Jones could not hide his excitement about securing the striker’s signature.
“I’m really delighted we’ve been able to sign Charlie. He’s a player we earmarked a long time ago as someone we really wanted to sign. With our promotion, it was something we went after really hard. I want to thank the Board and the owners for the support we’ve had in getting this over the line.
“He’s a goalscorer, which he proved last year. He’s scored 27 goals, played lots of games and he’s a great age. He’s everything we want at Charlton and adds to an already really strong strikeforce that we have.”
Kelman also expressed confidence that he is ready to make the step up to Championship level.
“I’m excited to be here. It’s a good squad, defensively solid and going forward very good as well. I feel like I’m ready for the Championship. I’m going to give it my best shot. I want to get my head down, score some goals and enjoy it.”
The striker was born in Basildon and spent much of his youth in the United States, going on to represent the USA at Under-18 and Under-20 levels. He began his professional career with Southend United in 2018 before moving to QPR two years later. Although first-team opportunities were limited in West London, Kelman gained experience through loan spells at Gillingham, Wigan Athletic and most notably Leyton Orient.
His return to Brisbane Road last season was transformative. He netted 21 league goals as Orient finished sixth and qualified for the League One play-offs, re-establishing himself as one of the most dangerous strikers outside the top two divisions.
Writer’s View
This is an astute bit of business from Charlton. Kelman is at the right age, has a natural instinct for goals and proved last season he can handle the pressure of leading the line. If he adapts quickly, he will give Charlton the firepower needed to be competitive in the Championship.
With Nathan Jones building a squad full of hunger and potential, the Addicks might be set for more than just consolidation.
