Charlton Athletic complete fourth signing of the summer – Conor McGrandles on free transfer following Lincoln exit

Charlton Athletic have made their fourth signing of the summer transfer window – Conor McGrandles.

The 26-year-old rejected a new contract at Lincoln City and is available on a free from the start of July. He has signed a three-year contract with the South Londoners

McGrandles was one of the Imps’ star performers and was part of their side which reached the 2020-21 League One play-off final, losing to Blackpool at Wembley.

The Scot, who made his senior debut at the age of 17 for hometown club Falkirk before a 2014 transfer to Norwich City, was also part of the Milton Keynes side which won automatic promotion from League Two in the 2018-19 season – also being voted their Young Player of the Year in that successful campaign.

McGrandles said: “The manager has told me about his style of play, the way he wants to go about things and it suits me down to the ground. I want to be in a team that moves the ball and attacks, and ultimately enjoys playing football.

“I have personally had a few good seasons, this is the right club for me to kick on and push myself to that next level, hopefully I can bring a bit of leadership and quality which will be good for everyone.”

Charlton manager Ben Garner said: “Conor is a really talented player who has proven himself to be one of the best midfield players in League One in recent seasons. He is a very consistent performer with great intelligence and adds even more quality and versatility to our midfield options. Conor also has the potential to get even better and we welcome him to Charlton Athletic.”

Addicks owner Thomas Sandgaard added: Thomas Sandgaard, said: “I’m really pleased we’ve been able to sign Conor, he was highly sought after as he is an excellent midfielder at this level and will continue to grow during his time with us. We want to control the midfield next season and adding Conor to the players we already have gives us a great opportunity to do that.”

McGrandles informed Lincoln that he would not be renewing terms after 91 appearances for them.

“We can only thank Conor for his contribution over the past two seasons, for the many memorable moments and wish him well for what comes next in his career. He leaves with the respect and genuine best wishes of all the players and staff.”

Michael Appleton was manager of Lincoln when McGrandles arrived. When the deal was announced, he said: “Conor is a very talented attacking midfield player, who has a very good range of passing, especially in the final third. I’m very confident he will flourish in the environment we are going to create and I look forward to welcoming him into the squad.”