Newcastle United will go head-to-head with Southampton for Queens Park Rangers striker Charlie Austin, according to The Telegraph.
The 25-year-old has enjoyed an impressive debut season in the Premier League – scoring 17 goals in 33 games – but, after QPR’s fate was sealed on Sunday, they are now resigned to losing their top goalscorer this summer. A number of potential suitors are expected to come calling for his signature but, as it stands, Newcastle and Southampton lead the chase.
Lee Charnley is hoping the allure of first-team football at St James’ Park will be enough to convince the English centre-forward to sign for the Magpies but, with the potential of Europa League football with the Saints, lucrative personal terms may need to be tabled.
QPR are currently embroiled in a legal dispute over the validity of the Football League’s Financial Fair Play rules that could have serious repercussions. A private panel will be formed to hear the case within the next 119 days. Should they lose their appeal, QPR are expected to be hit with a huge fine and a transfer ban.
Newcastle will look to exploit their situation by attempting to sign Charlie Austin for a fee well below his market value but, should any of the potential suitors follow up their initial interest, the R’s will have ample ammunition for negotiating a reasonable transfer fee (plus add ons).
Relegation would scupper any chance of the Magpies landing Austin. So, John Carver, it’s over to you.
