Notts County are undergoing preparation for their return to League One, following promotion last season but for one of their former players – a possible move to the National League awaits.
The Magpies cruised past Salford City in the League Two play-off final in May, with Jodi Jones in particular receiving many plaudits for his contributions to get the club back into the third tier once again.
Unsurprisingly, the club have already been active in the summer transfer window – but on route within their rise from the National League to League One, players have came and gone, with one of those individuals now looking for a return to the fifth tier.
Former Notts County man set for National League trial
As mentioned, Notts County (like almost every club) have undergone significant changes on the pitch to ensure their side returns to the higher division’s, and that has left some players without clubs along the way.
One of those individuals was midfielder Charlie Colkett, who has had a challenging career since departing Chelsea on a permanent deal back in 2019.
Since his exit, Colkett had a successful stint in Sweden with Ostersund, before returning to England in 2022 with the likes of Cheltenham Town, Crewe Alexandra and Notts County. However, one thing that has become apparent is his struggles to find a permanent home for longer than a single campaign, but that could be set to change.
As reported by journalist Pete O’Rourke, midfielder Charlie Colkett is set to join National League side Hornchurch for a trial period, with a view to securing a permanent stay ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
The 29-year-old has been without a full-time club since his departure from fellow fifth-tier side Gateshead in June 2025, though did have a stint with non-League outfit AFC Croydon Athletic.
Hornchurch do have a potential battle on their hands, with both Farnborough and Hampton & Richmond also keen to secure his signature.
Would this be a good addition for Hornchurch?
The 2026/27 season will be Hornchurch’s first ever season in the National League, and with that comes the need to reinvest in the squad to bring it up to the levels required to compete.
Colkett is an experienced midfielder in the EFL and has recent fifth-tier experience, though injuries have played a part in his career since departing Stamford Bridge.
Hornchurch have been busy in the transfer window so far, securing the permanent addition of Arthur Nasta from Wolverhampton Wanderers, as well as experienced additions such as Joe Kizzi (Barnet) and Jack Baldwin (Colchester United) in order to try and ensure they can compete.
Their recruitment thus far seemingly suggests that Hornchurch are looking to add proven players to bolster their squad, rather than relying on unproven youngsters to make the step up – suggesting a reasoning as to why Colkett may be a sensible addition for the club.
However, having a year out of full-time football could pose a risk factor towards his signature, even despite this being a free transfer rather than for a fee.
