Charlton Signs QPR Striker Kelman After League One Golden Boot Season

Charlton Athletic have signed striker Charlie Kelman from Queens Park Rangers for around £3 million, with the deal including a 20% sell-on clause. Kelman, 23, was last season's League One Golden Boot winner after scoring 21 league goals on loan at Leyton Orient, where he played all 46 league games and helped the team reach the play-offs. Despite interest from MLS side Charlotte FC and other clubs such as Luton, Kelman prioritized a move to the Championship with Charlton, who have made him their eighth summer signing. Kelman began his career at Southend United before moving to QPR in 2020, but had limited impact there, scoring no goals in 23 appearances before loan spells at Gillingham, Wigan, and Orient. Charlton manager Nathan Jones praised Kelman as a proven goalscorer who adds strength to their strikeforce, while Kelman expressed excitement about competing in the Championship and contributing to the team. Meanwhile, QPR are looking to strengthen their squad by pursuing new strikers, including Schalke's Pape Meïssa Ba and Colchester's Samson Tovide, as they prepare for the upcoming season.