NEW Charlton manager Iain Dowie is having talks with 18-year-old Leeds United defender Simon Walton over a move to The Valley.

Leeds manager Kevin Blackwell confirmed: "We've had an approach from Charlton about Simon and given permission for them to talk to him. They are a Premiership club and we cannot stand in his way."

Walton, a graduate of Leeds' renowned youth academy, made his first team debut in a pre-season friendly against Valencia two years ago. Though he scored from the penalty spot, he was later sent off for a second bookable offence.

Since breaking into the first team, Leeds have used him in midfield, though his preferred position is in central defence.

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