Southampton join Austin race

Southampton have joined the race to sign Queens Park Rangers striker Charlie Austin, according to the Express.

Despite the Hoops’ relegation to the Championship, Only Sergio Aguero, Harry Kane and Diego Costa scored more Premier League goals than Austin last season, and his efforts were recognised by England manager Roy Hodgson earlier this month.

The 25 year old was named in the squad for the friendly against the Republic of Ireland and the Euro 2016 qualifier against Slovenia but was an unused substitute for both matches.

Newcastle United, West Ham United and even champions Chelsea have also been linked with a move for the former Burnley man, though Saints’ manager Ronald Koeman is keen to steal a march on his rivals.

Austin moved to Loftus Road in the summer of 2013, and has since made seventy-three appearances in all competitions, scoring thirty-eight goals while he was named the Premier League Player of the Month back in December.