Charlton have completed the signing of Southend midfielder Nicky Bailey in a deal worth £750,000 to the Shrimpers.

Bailey, 24, goes straight into Charlton's squad for Saturday's match at Watford where he is certain to make his Addicks debut. The 24-year-old Southend Player of the Year, was placed on the transfer list during the close-season after declining to extend his contract.

Manager Alan Pardew, who has made no secret of wanting to strengthen his squad, said: "He's a young player who we have been tracking for some time.

"He scored 12 goals in League 2 which is no mean feat and I hope he can repeat that kind of success with us."