Charlton Athletic have made two significant squad additions this week, signing forward Jesurun Rak-Sakyi from Crystal Palace and bringing in goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo on a season-long loan from Wrexham. The moves come as Nathan Jones's side sits third in the Championship with a perfect record of two wins from two games, scoring four goals and conceding two.
What does Jesurun Rak-Sakyi bring to Charlton?
Crystal Palace forward Jesurun Rak-Sakyi has completed a permanent move to Charlton Athletic, according to reports. The deal is said to be worth more than 4 million pounds for the 23 year old, who returns to The Valley after a successful loan spell in the 2022 23 season. Rak Sakyi won the club's player of the year award that campaign after scoring 15 goals in 49 appearances across all competitions.
He spent last season on loan in Turkey with Caykur Rizespor and then at Stoke City. Palace were reportedly seeking a fee closer to 20 million pounds for the player last summer, but with a year left on his contract and needing to balance their squad for European competition, a sale was pursued. Rak Sakyi, an England youth international, failed to secure a regular place at Selhurst Park.
Why did Wrexham let Arthur Okonkwo leave?
Wrexham have allowed goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo to join Charlton Athletic on a season long loan. Sports Illustrated reported that the 24 year old Nigeria international, who is out of contract next summer, became available after falling to third choice following Anthony Patterson's arrival at the Racecourse Ground. Okonkwo was a fan favorite at Wrexham, making 39 appearances last season and helping the club achieve consecutive promotions.
Phil Parkinson's decision to sign Patterson and the return to fitness of Danny Ward pushed Okonkwo down the pecking order. He was left out of the squad for Wrexham's season opener, signaling his departure. The loan move means Charlton have secured an experienced Championship goalkeeper who was integral to two promotion campaigns.
How is Charlton's season starting under Nathan Jones?
Charlton Athletic have begun the new Championship season with strong resolve, winning both of their opening matches. A fan column published this week highlighted the team's courage in coming from a goal down to beat Derby County on the opening day, a feat they failed to achieve throughout the previous season. Tyreece Campbell scored the late winner in that 2 1 victory.
The team followed that up with another win, contributing to their current position of third in the standings. Manager Nathan Jones has received praise for his work, with the fan column noting the quick integration of new signings and a tactical flexibility between a back four and a back five. Top scorer Tyreece Campbell has two goals in two appearances so far.
What is next for Charlton Athletic?
The immediate focus turns to the Carabao Cup, where Charlton face a tough second round trip to Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday. Roberto De Zerbi's Spurs are expected to field a strong side including new signing Savio, according to a predicted lineup from Football London. After that, attention returns to the league and a home match against Preston North End on 29 August.
Preston currently sit 20th in the table, presenting another opportunity for Charlton to build on their positive start. You can view the full schedule on our fixtures page. With the Rak Sakyi and Okonkwo deals now completed, and the team showing early promise, the club appears to be evolving into a competitive Championship side as the transfer window continues.
