Charlton Athletic sign 'excellent' ex Lincoln City and St Johnstone star from London rivals

Charlton Athletic have confirmed their fourth signing of the summer transfer window as the club continues to be proactive in preparing for Nathan Jones' first full season in charge at The Valley.

The Welshman had made it clear that he hoped to have the majority of business done for the start of pre-season and that certainly seems to be happening. The Addicks had already brought in goalkeeper Will Mannion, midfielder Luke Berry and defender Josh Edwards.

Now, centre-back Alex Mitchell has put pen to paper on a three-year contract with the club as he arrives from Championship outfit Millwall for an undisclosed fee. The Lions defender spent last season on loan with Lincoln City in League One.

As the club confirmed the deal, Jones said: "Alex is someone I’ve known for a while so I’m really pleased to bring him to Charlton. He has gone out on loan and played games which is important for a young lad. He is someone that is an excellent defender and someone that will make us stronger, more competitive and more aggressive. 

"He has so much scope to grow. He’s 22 and played a lot of games and is nowhere near his ceiling. He did fantastically well at Lincoln last season and was a big part of their strong push in the second half of the season. He’s a player I'm very excited to work with."

Mitchell is a product of the Millwall youth academy but made just one senior appearance for the club and has now been deemed not part of Neil Harris' plans - despite a lack of progress on a deal for former Tottenham Hotspur defender Japhet Tanganga. Mitchell had been loaned to Bromley, Leyton Orient and St Johnstone in recent years.

The defender played Charlton twice last year at Lincoln City. The Imps beat the Addicks 3-1 in October before drawing 1-1 at The Valley in February.

On signing, Mitchell said: "I'm very happy to get it done early doors. As soon as I knew Charlton were interested it was a no-brainer for me. It's a massive club. I played against Charlton last season and last time I came to The Valley I was in awe of the stadium. I thought the fanbase was top so I'm really looking forward to it.

"My chats with Nathan [Jones] have been really positive. He made it clear that he wanted me and to feel valued like that was a big part in me coming here. I can't wait to work with him."