Sutton United have completed the signing of midfielder Charlie Carter from Dorking Wanderers, bringing a Sutton-born player back to the club from a move that should give their midfield an immediate lift.

Carter is 29 and arrives after three years at Dorking Wanderers, where he led the side as captain for the past two seasons. His path to Sutton has also included spells in National League football with Woking and Eastleigh, plus a three-year run at League Two Stevenage that added to his experience in the middle of the pitch.

The move matters because Carter is not coming in as a development project. He has already played senior football across several levels, and Sutton are getting a player with a strong track record in a demanding part of the game. For supporters searching for what the transfer means now, the answer is that Sutton have added a captain and a local name with enough experience to be expected to play a leading role quickly.

There is also a personal link behind the signing. Chris Agutter, who coached Carter briefly at Stevenage, said he believed Carter would be the best attacking midfield player in the league and described the deal as a statement signing. He added that Sutton moved aggressively and jumped on the chance to bring him in once the opportunity appeared.

That confidence sits alongside the sharper edge of the transfer for Dorking. Carter spent two seasons as captain there, so his departure removes a familiar leader as well as a midfielder. Sutton have made their move now, but the club have not said when Carter will be available to make his debut, leaving the next detail fans are waiting for firmly in the dark.