“I don’t see that one happening” – Charlton manager rules out Ikpeazu move

Charlton Athletic manager Michael Appleton appears to ruled out any move for Port Vale striker Uche Ikpeazu.

Multiple sources said that the powerful striker was undertaking a medical at the Valley on Friday. It followed reports that both Charlton and Wycombe Wanderers were interested in signing the striker whose Port Vale contract potentially expires at the end of the season. Port Vale manager Andy Crosby was cagey about the interest saying “We are obviously aware of some interest in Uche but there’s interest in other players as well.”

However, speaking to the media after his sides 2-0 loss to Burton Albion, Appleton said he didn’t think any move would happen commenting: “I don’t think so. I’m sure we’ll be continuing to work really hard to try and improve us. If there’s an opportunity to bring in another striker at the level that we want and expect then I’m sure we’ll be able to do that. But I don’t see that one (Ikpeazu) happening.”

The news comes after Charlton brought in Ipswich Town striker Freddie Ladapo on loan. It’s arguably good news for the Valiants who are short of choices upfront with loanee Josh Thomas having returned to Swansea City and Ryan Loft out of form. In addition, Ben Garrity, often played upfront is out until March. It leaves Ikpeazu, James Wilson and teenager Baylee Dipepa as the regular choices in recent games.

Ikpeazu signed for the Valiants in October 2023 in a deal which at the time was said to be “at least until the end of the 2023-24 season.” Ikpeazu, who had been out of the game for some months, has gradually found form after gaining match fitness and got off the mark in a draw with Charlton.