Newcastle United have suffered a set back in their pursuit of Queens Park Rangers striker Charlie Austin, with the Hoops demanding at least £15million for his signature.
Following the Hoops’ relegation to the Championship, Newcastle were hoping they could strike a deal for Austin at a cut-price but, according to a report in the Mirror, this is not the case.
As both a homegrown player and proven goalscorer, Austin is coveted by other Premier League clubs, including Southampton, Aston Villa and West Ham, per the Mirror.
Austin will decide his footballing future when he returns from international duty with England. He was an unused substitue in the first game against the Republic of Ireland, which ended in a 0-0 draw.
With Steve McClaren set to become the new manager of Newcastle United later this week, the club had hoped to delve into the transfer market, with Austin as their number one priority. However, QPR’s hefty price-tag could scupper a potential move.
Instead, Newcastle could turn their attentions to West Bromwich Albion striker Saido Berahino, who’s reportedly grown frustrated with life at the Hawthorns. Even if Lee Charnley were to sanction a move for the 21-year-old, the Baggies are demanding a fee in the region of £20million.
