Thomas Sandgaard outlines Charlton Athletic transfer plans – and backs ‘big talent’ Charlie Kirk

Thomas Sandgaard expects Charlton to make a “handful” of signings before the transfer window closes at the end of this month.

But the US-based Danish businessman admits that the bulk of that activity could come in terms of loan additions. The Addicks only have one temporary signing in Akin Famewo, with a fee agreed if they want to try and turn the Norwich defender’s stay into a permanent arrangement.

“I hope we can make a few more additions,” Sandgaard told Charlton TV in their pre-show before the Oxford United match. “Some of those will probably be more of the last-minute deadline day loan signings – simply just to create a little more depth in the squad. Because it is a long season, 46 games as a minimum.

“We need a few more players in to strengthen the depth of the squad. We pretty much have the makings of a starting first-team now and a decent depth. By adding up to a handful more players before deadline then we will be well set for this season.

“We’re not rushing it. We see where other clubs look like they are rushing signings and willing to spend a lot of money. What’s more important to me is that we are very picky in how we build the squad and also the depth of the team, that is probably something that is different from how things were done in the past.”

Charlton made their sixth signing of the window last Thursday after agreeing an undisclosed fee with Crewe for winger Charlie Kirk.

“I’m extremely pleased with our new recruiting system and the way we’re going about it,” said Sandgaard. “This is something we have been working on for a very long time and obviously have identified Charlie as someone that would fit perfectly into how we’d like to play in the future.

“I’m trying to build a team for the future and the impossible equation of young talent that has 30 years of experience! Charlie is one of those who has a lot of talent and he will be someone who can grow with us up through the tables, and develop as we as a club develop.

“He’s going to be a strong asset for us on the left wing and create even more chances. We know from his history that he has the ability to score goals. What we had last season in Liam Millar we now have Charlie Kirk, who I think is an even bigger talent.”