Charlton Athletic are hoping to sign Marcus Browne from Middlesbrough on a permanent transfer rather than a loan deal according to Richard Cawley of the South London Press.

Football Insider reported this morning the 24-year-old was undergoing a medical ahead of a loan move for the remainder of the campaign.

Browne is a versatile forward but typically likes to operate off of either flank.

Johnnie Jackson has not played with any wingers since taking the reins in late October, and given Browne's recent fitness record, there are certainly some concerns around whether the deal would be a success.

That granted, the West Ham United academy graduate has demonstrated at League One level in recent years that he possesses ability that belongs in a higher league, but with Middlesbrough performing so well at the moment it may become difficult for him to find first team opportunities in the second half of the campaign.

With Chuks Aneke already arriving at the club this month it is clear where on the pitch the Addicks are looking to improve, Browne, who has a contract on Teesside until the summer of 2023, is unlikely to command a substantial fee due to his fitness record but certainly represents a player with a high potential sell-on value.

The Verdict

In building towards a promotion push next season, Browne would be an ambitious addition for the South Londoners, although he has played as a winger for most of his career, the 24-year-old has the physique to play through the middle and certainly would make the Addicks a more dangerous team for opponents to plan for.

A loan move could be advisable, giving Charlton the opportunity to try before they buy and provide a platform for Browne to get up to speed in the third tier, where the club could have very little to play for in the coming months.

Browne would join a fiercely competitive attacking contingent with Mason Burstow, Chuks Aneke, Jayden Stockley, Conor Washington and Jonathan Leko all currently vying for a starting berth.