Exclusive – MK Dons Set Sights On First Summer Signing

MK Dons are keen to secure midfielder Jack Payne on a permanent deal following his release from Charlton Athletic, as reported by The Real EFL.

Payne, 29, joined MK Dons on a season-long loan last summer after falling out of favor at Charlton. Initially, he started three of the first four games under then-manager Dean Holden. However, following Holden’s dismissal, Payne was allowed to leave The Valley, making a late move to Buckinghamshire where he found regular playing time under both Graham Alexander and Mike Williamson.

During his time with MK Dons, Payne played a significant role in the team’s climb up the League Two table. After being relegated from League One the previous season, MK Dons had a slow start in the fourth tier. They went nine games without a win through September and October, slipping to 18th place. The arrival of Williamson marked a turning point, leading to a resurgence that saw the team challenging for promotion.

Despite their efforts, MK Dons fell short of automatic promotion, with Stockport County, Wrexham, and Mansfield Town securing the coveted spots in League One. MK Dons entered the play-offs as favorites against seventh-placed Crawley Town but suffered a disappointing exit, losing by a record-breaking aggregate score of 8-1 in the semi-finals.

Looking ahead to next season, Williamson is focused on regrouping and targeting promotion, with Payne being a key part of his plans. The versatile playmaker ended the campaign with six goals and six assists from 40 league appearances. Now a free agent after being released by Charlton, Payne is attracting interest from other clubs, but MK Dons are eager to retain him on a permanent basis.

Payne’s experience and winning mentality are valuable assets. He has achieved promotion in every tier of the EFL. He helped guide Southend United to League One in 2015 and played a part in Huddersfield Town’s promotion to the Premier League in 2017. Additionally, he contributed to Blackburn Rovers’ return to the Championship in 2018 after joining the club on loan during the winter transfer window. MK Dons will hope that Payne’s track record of success can help them achieve their promotion ambitions next season.