Charlton boss Alan Pardew has made a move to add some steel to his defence by agreeing a fee with Manchester City for Ben Thatcher.
The Addicks are in desperate need of a boost, with the club currently sat in the relegation zone, and Pardew said recently he would have to be creative in the transfer market.
Charlton have shipped 40 goals this term, which is by some way the worst record in the Premiership, and Pardew has made a move to remedy this by stepping in for Thatcher.
City have accepted Pardew's gambit and the former Wales international has been given permission to head to the capital to discuss terms.
"The clubs have agreed a fee and the player is speaking with Charlton," said City boss Stuart Pearce. "That's as far as we are now.
"The finance we can gain from Ben going can be invested in other positions in the team.
"I believe I have enough cover to cope in his absence."
Pardew has seen American defender Cory Gibbs ruled out for the season with a knee injury and he will hope to persuade Thatcher to move south and aid his cause.