Charlton Athletic are set to complete the signing of Harvey Knibbs from Reading, with a deal worth around £1.8 millionagreed between the two clubs, according to multiple sources.
The 26-year-old attacking midfielder is poised to become Nathan Jones’ ninth summer signing as the Addicks continue to bolster their squad ahead of their return to the Championship.
Knibbs has enjoyed back-to-back standout seasons in League One and was identified early as a top target by Charlton’s recruitment team. He has one year remaining on his contract at Reading.
🔁 Move imminent
Knibbs has not featured during Reading’s pre-season campaign, with manager Noel Hunt confirming the player had pulled out of the squad due to a breakthrough in transfer negotiations.
“There have been talks between us and another club and unfortunately we think it’s nearly done,” Hunt admitted after a friendly loss to Portsmouth. “They’ve come to an agreement so Harvey pulled himself out of the squad.”
Charlton have now moved decisively to land the forward, fending off interest from Derby, Portsmouth, Oxford and Sheffield United.
💥 2024/25: His best season yet
Knibbs took his game to new levels last season. Transitioning into a more central attacking role, he delivered double figures in both goals and assists — becoming one of the most effective creators in the division.
His pressing, movement and link-up play made him a central figure in Reading’s system, and his ability to operate across the midfield and forward line gives Charlton key tactical flexibility.
📊 Key FotMob Stats – 2024/25 League One season:
• 44 appearances, 15 goals, 11 assists
• 2,952 minutes played, 43 starts
• Average match rating: 7.08
• Percentile rank among League One midfielders:
• 92nd for goal contributions
• 85th for final third passes
• 78th for key passes per 90
• 80th for defensive duels won
🧠 Career overview
| Club | Years | Apps | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aston Villa | 2017–2019 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Cambridge United | 2019–2023 | 156 | 26 | 10 |
| Reading | 2023–2025 | 100 | 32 | 12 |
Knibbs’ total of 26 direct goal involvements last season represents the best return of his career to date and signals he is more than ready to make the jump to Championship football.
With the Addicks hosting Watford on opening day, Knibbs is expected to be registered in time to make his debut at The Valley — a potential difference-maker for Nathan Jones as Charlton look to consolidate in the second tier.
🔴 ZONE CONFIRMED
@CAFCofficial | @ReadingFC
#CAFC #ReadingFC #EFL #Transfers #Knibbs #Charlton #DeadlineDay