Recent reports have emerged linking Southampton striker Charlie Austin with a move to the Hawthorns. The Sun allege that Austin is top of the list for the Baggies in their search for a new forward.
Indeed, with the Saints signing striker Che Adams from Birmingham City, it appears that Austin has fallen down the pecking order at St. Mary’s and therefore a move away is increasingly likely.
However, West Brom will face fierce competition from a number of clubs including local rivals Aston Villa. The newly-promoted side are looking to add Premier League experience to their squad, and boss Dean Smith is said to be a keen admirer of the forward.
Austin has plenty of experience, with over 100 Premier League appearances under his belt. Yet, at 29-years-old, he still has much of his career ahead of him. The forward made his debut in England’s highest tier for QPR in the 2014-15 season where he scored 18 goals, and resultantly earned a call-up for the national team.
Austin subsequently signed for Southampton in 2015, and his goal scoring record for the Saints has been less impressive. However, new Baggies’ boss Slaven Bilic believes he can help revive Austin’s career by giving him a chance at the Hawthornes.
Indeed, West Brom are in the search for a new forward, after confirming that Dwight Gayle would not be returning to the Baggies, and with there being little chance of Salomon Rondon wanting to play Championship football. It is believed that £8million will be enough to secure the services of Austin, a lowly figure for a player with Premier League pedigree.
However Bilic will have a difficult task on his hands persuading Austin to drop down a level. This transfer saga could continue for a number of weeks.
