This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

Charlton Athletic manager Lee Bowyer is looking to strengthen his squad ahead of the new Championship season with the Addicks registering an interest in Reading striker Sam Baldock, according to former Reading Chronicle journalist Anthony Smith on Twitter.

Baldock, 30, has struggled to make an impact at the Madejski Stadium since arriving in the summer of 2018 from Brighton & Hove Albion, scoring five goals in 21 appearances in all competitions.

So would Baldock be a good signing for the Addicks?

We discuss........

Tommy Joyce

"With Baldock struggling at Reading last year, picking him up shouldn't be too much of a struggle.

"Reading can't afford to have players sitting on the bench who can be sold for decent value, so I imagine they would quite like to get the deal done.

"Charlton also need strikers, and players who have done it in the Championship before - Baldock fits both of those.

"If Charlton can get a low fee for the striker, then it would be smart business in my opinion. He didn't score many last year but he has proved himself as a goalscorer at this level before, and while he probably won't get you 15 goals this season, he is a more than capable finisher."

Ned Holmes

"This could work for all involved.

"Lee Bowyer will be looking to add some Championship experience to his squad as he prepares for their return to the English second flight, and with more than 150 appearances in the league Baldock certainly provides that.

"Reading need to clear some of their wage bill so getting rid of Baldock after a poor debut season, in which he scored just six goals in 23 appearances, could be a good move.

"Bowyer is in need of more reinforcements in the final third, with only three forwards currently in the squad, and while he is not the most glamorous of signings Baldock could add something to the squad.

"After a disappointing season at Reading and being marginalised in Brighton after they reached the Premier League he may have something to prove."

Kealan Hughes

"Baldock is exactly the type of player Charlton need right now. They lack players with Championship experience and he would be able to lead by example at the top of the pitch.

"He hasn't had much joy in front of goal of late but in the right environment under the right manager he could prosper. He needs a club where he can settle down and Charlton would be able to provide that despite the instability behind the scenes.

"He offers a lot more than goals however, and he would provide good foil for Lyle Taylor. If those two work together well then that would provide the basis of a good season for Charlton.

"With Macauley Bonne also in the squad Charlton would have a bit of everything up front, and if they could add a target man they would have a variety of options to trouble defences through different methods."