Charlton Athletic have signed defender Simon Francis from Southend after the Shrimpers agreed to transfer the player's registration to the Addicks.The right-back, who was Southend's player of the year last term, signed a a two-year deal and will cost £35,000, rising to £75,000 depending on results.
"We've waited a long time to do this deal," Charlton boss Phil Parkinson told the club website.
"As always, sometimes you have to be patient to get the player you want."
And after losing Frazer Richardson to Southampton earlier this season, Parkinson was keen to get his man.
It is a terrific signing for the club
Charlton boss Phil Parkinson
"As soon as we lost Frazer, Simon was the right-back we wanted," Parkinson said.
"Obviously, he comes in a little bit behind in terms of fitness because he hasn't been playing at Southend for contractual reasons, but it's a terrific signing for the club."
The Shrimpers had previously agreed to release Francis from his contract, but wanted to retain the player's registration.
However, they have now agreed to transfer this over to Charlton, and Parkinson is excited by the prospect of working with a player of his potential.
"He's a young player who is only going to get better and we look forward to working with him."
Source: BBC Sport
Source: BBC Sport