Charlton Athletic manager interested in deal for Jermain Defoe

Charlton Athletic are interested in signing Jermain Defoe – but manager Johnnie Jackson is expecting fierce competition for the former England striker’s signature.

The 39-year-old, who came through the Addicks’ youth ranks before quitting for West Ham United in 1999, is a free agent after leaving Glasgow Rangers earlier this month.

Oxford United have reportedly held talks with Defoe. He has also been linked with a return to Charlton as well as Sunderland and Ipswich Town.

“Jermain is someone I know well – I played with him at England youth level and we were team-mates at Spurs,” Jackson told the South London Press.

“He’s obviously had an unbelievable career and he is one of the best strikers I’ve ever played with. He is the best finisher I’ve ever seen. So when a player like that comes available, of course it is of interest. You have to have a little look at it. That is as far as it has gone so far.”

Defoe, capped 57 times by the Three Lions, scored 163 Premier League goals in 496 matches.

“I’ve been an admirer from afar as he has gone about his career,” said Jackson. “Despite his age he has gone to Glasgow Rangers and won a league title. He did really well there and anyone you speak to about him, they tell you that he keeps himself in fantastic condition and that he is a great professional – very good around the young players.

“It’s one you have to take seriously. I would assume a whole host of clubs will be after his services.

“Having seen over the last few years the goals that he still scores and the impact that he has had at a club like Rangers, how would you not be interested?”