He's only 19, but his CV speaks volumes. Now NPL Victoria's premiers have come calling

NPL Victoria premiers Oakleigh Cannons have secured the signature of highly-rated Australian youth international goalkeeper Lachie Charles from Melbourne City.

The 19-year-old arrives at Jack Edwards Reserve with an impressive pedigree, having progressed through City's academy before earning his first professional contract in 2024.

Charles has already established himself as one of Victoria's standout young goalkeepers, claiming the 2025 VPL1 Goalkeeper of the Year award.

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His performances have also attracted international recognition, with the teenager selected in Australia's Young Socceroos squad for the 2026 ASEAN U19 Boys' Championship.

The move represents an impressive piece of recruitment for Oakleigh, who have added a goalkeeper with professional experience, individual honours and international youth pedigree despite his young age.

For Charles, the switch presents an opportunity to continue his development in Victoria's top flight with the reigning premiers, as the Cannons strengthen their squad for the Australian Championship and 2027 NPL campaign, having already recruited Tyson Martin.