Charlton Athletic are delighted to announce that academy prospect Josh Laqeretabua has signed a new long-term contract with the club.
The 19-year-old, who joined the Addicks’ academy at U9 level, has put pen-to-paper on a deal until 2028, with a club option of an extra year.
Since making his first-team debut in September 2023, Laqeretabua has featured eight times across all competitions - including his league debut in Charlton’s 1-0 win at Burton Albion in November 2024.
“I’m delighted to sign a long-term deal with the club,” said the versatile defender. “I’ve been here since U9s and it’s been something I’ve been working towards since I signed my last contract.
“It’s nice to have a gaffer that takes you under his wing, puts faith in you and gives you opportunities. I’m just grateful that he’s been able to do that.”
Manager Nathan Jones commented: “We’re really pleased Josh has committed his future to Charlton. The club has a history of producing real, top end defenders and we believe Josh can be in that category.
“He’s had a tough time with injuries, which he is coming through now. He’s been with the men’s first-team for a significant number of months now in terms of training. He has athleticism and real quality. We’re delighted that he’s trusted us with his development and so we’re excited about what the future can bring for him.”
Technical Director Andy Scott added: “We’re delighted that Josh has become the latest young player to commit his future to the club. He’s a very highly-rated defender who has been getting good exposure to the men’s first-team environment in recent months.
“He has excellent technical and physical attributes and a strong mentality. Like all of our young players who have committed to the club, he’ll benefit from working with our coaches, performance staff and Nathan, who have good experience of developing talented, young players.”
After progressing through the youth ranks, Laqeretabua, who represented Fiji at the FIFA U20 World Cup, signed his first professional contract with the club in July 2023.
The defender made his senior debut two months later in the Addicks’ EFL Trophy tie against Crawley Town.
Laqeretabua’s full debut came in October 2023 when he started Charlton’s 4-2 victory against Aston Villa’s U21s in the EFL Trophy.
He has made six appearances for the Addicks across all competitions this season, including two Sky Bet League One outings.
Charlton fans can support the academy by signing up to the Valley Gold scheme. Valley Gold enables fans to support the club’s academy in unearthing the talents of tomorrow, as well as giving them the chance to win cash prizes.
Click here for more information on how you can become a Valley Gold member.
