Luton Town have boosted their defensive ranks ahead of the new season. The Hatters have announced the double signing of Tom Lockyer and James Bree.
Lockyer arrives from Charlton Athletic after spending just one season at the Valley. Right-back Bree returns to Kenilworth Road having spent last season on loan at the club.
Bree arrives on a permanent deal following his exit from Aston Villa. The defenders arrive as Luton’s second and third summer signings.
Tom Lockyer and James Bree Join Luton Town
Lockyer Joins From Charlton Athletic
Lockyer is a vastly experienced centre back having spent seven seasons with Bristol Rovers. During his time with the Gas, he helped them secure promotion to League One.
He joined Charlton Athletic last summer and was a key part of their team. However, he was unable to help the Addicks avoid relegation to the third tier. At 25 years old, the best years are ahead for the Wales international.
Speaking to the Luton website about Lockyer’s arrival, manager Nathan Jones said: “We wanted to strengthen in that area and have four centre-halves, so we are delighted to get Tom.
“He’s someone I’ve known about since his days at Bristol Rovers.
“He played against us for them, went to Charlton and has had a real good season there and established himself in the Welsh squad.”
“The number of games he’s played for a 25-year-old is excellent, so he brings good experience even though he’s of a relatively young age.
“He’ll add real competition to what we’ve got here and there is still plenty to come.”
He added: “He wanted to stay at the Championship level because he’s ambitious and wants to establish himself as an international player, so with that hunger and desire to do well, he ticks all the boxes for us.”
James Bree Returns After A Successful Loan Spell
Right-back Bree played an integral role as Luton secured their Championship status. Bree made 42 appearances and became a fans favourite during his loan spell.
He now returns to Kenilworth Road on a permanent deal following his release from Aston Villa. Bree struggled to make a strong impression at Villa Park, but a move to Luton breathed new life into the defender.
Manager Nathan Jones spoke about Bree return, saying: “We only had one right-back on our list and we went all out to get him.
“It’s a great coup for the club and he will only get better.”
“He’s shown a real commitment to want to come to the club permanently, and we are delighted to have him because we have real high hopes for him, firstly to establish himself in our team and then establish himself as a top Championship right-back.
“He’s a great fit with what we like to do here. We like to get them at a real good age, put real good work into them, give them a platform to play and then develop them into real top full-backs, real top players, and we believe that James is in that category.”
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