---
title: "Newcastle and Saints lead Austin chase"
canonical: "https://readnewcastle.com/2015/05/12/newcastle-and-saints-lead-austin-chase/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Thomas Bore"
section: "Newcastle United News"
published: "2015-05-12T16:38:56Z"
modified: "2015-05-12T16:41:23Z"
---

# Newcastle and Saints lead Austin chase

Newcastle United will go head-to-head with Southampton for Queens Park Rangers striker Charlie Austin, according to [The Telegraph](https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/queens-park-rangers/11598874/Newcastle-and-Southampton-lead-chase-for-QPR-striker-Charlie-Austin.html).

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.