CASH-STRAPPED Charlton are preparing for a mass player cull in January as their financial woes increase - with star kid Jonjo Shelvey certain to be sold.

CASH-STRAPPED Charlton are preparing for a mass player cull in January as their financial woes increase - with star kid Jonjo Shelvey certain to be sold. (Mirror)

The League One Addicks are desperately seeking a new owner with David Sullivan and the Gold brothers interested if they fail to get West Ham.

And if Charlton are not rescued this season after dropping out of the top-flight in 2007, then the club could be heading for administration next summer.

Charlton notified several agents last week to move on big earners like Leon McKenzie, Izale McLeod and Christian Dailly, who pick up around �8,000-a-week.

And England starlet Shelvey, 17, will be the first to be sold with several Premier League clubs like Chelsea and Spurs interested.

But Charlton's problems are so serious, they will even listen to offers for some of their talented youngsters in the academy.

The Addicks hope to raise cash by selling some fledgling stars to the likes of Manchester United, who could then send some of their fringe players to The Valley on loan.

It is a nightmare prospect for boss Phil Parkinson who has guided Charlton to second in League One.

And club insiders fear the escalating financial problems could wreck their decent start.

Sullivan and the Golds are willing to save the club but only if they fail to buy West Ham, who also have major money problems.