These two transfer scenarios must not occur next month at Charlton Athletic. Fans are not happy

Charlton Athletic’s decision to replace Dean Holden with Michael Appleton early in the 2023-24 season has proven successful so far, with the team showing improvement under the new head coach. As the January transfer window approaches, the Addicks face crucial decisions to maintain their momentum and push for a playoff spot. Two scenarios that Charlton cannot afford to let happen in the upcoming transfer window are discussed below.

1. **Selling Miles Leaburn despite his serious injury:**
– Alfie May’s successful stint since his summer move from Cheltenham Town may attract interest from Championship clubs. However, it’s suggested that the more likely target for potential suitors is Miles Leaburn.
– Leaburn, 30, gained attention last season when he scored 12 goals in his debut year in League One. Despite being on the radar of clubs, a hamstring injury has sidelined him for a significant portion, if not the entirety, of the season.
– Chelsea and Brentford were reportedly keeping tabs on Leaburn, but the injury might dissuade clubs from making a move. Charlton should resist any bids for the promising 20-year-old and retain their prized asset.

2. **Letting Corey Blackett-Taylor’s contract run down:**
– Corey Blackett-Taylor, 26, has been a key contributor to Charlton’s success, scoring six goals and providing six assists in 19 League One appearances this season.
– With interest from Hull City, Huddersfield Town, and Plymouth Argyle for a potential cut-price deal, Charlton faces a dilemma with Blackett-Taylor’s contract approaching its last six months.
– The suggestion is that if a reasonable fee is offered in January, Charlton should consider selling Blackett-Taylor to avoid the risk of him leaving for nothing at the end of the season. Reinvesting the funds could be a strategic move for the club.

In summary, Charlton Athletic must carefully navigate the January transfer window to ensure they retain crucial assets like Miles Leaburn and make strategic decisions regarding players with expiring contracts, such as Corey Blackett-Taylor, to maintain their positive trajectory under Michael Appleton.