Southampton forward Charlie Austin is reportedly set to be given a way out of his current club by Aston Villa. The Villains are interested in bringing in the Saints’ top scorer this season. Austin had initially impressed with Queens Park Rangers back when QPR played in the English Premier League.
He went on to join the Saints where he became the main man for Southampton as well. Despite having been off the field due to a lengthy injury lay off, he is their current top scorer this season and is the main number none hitman to be called upon when fit.
Aston Villa are currently fourth in the Championship table and fighting to win a play-off spot this season. The club from midlands has collected 73 points from 40 games and are 10 points above the current required number to participate in the play-offs. They are also 13 points off the top of the table meaning that winning the Sky Bet Championship is beyond their reach now.
Their latest slump in form saw them earn only 4 points in 4 matches meaning that the Villains are dropping off the pace and will have to recharge before the play-offs start. They have however, produced an excellent defense this season and have conceded only 37 goals in 40 matches. The John Terry led team has the third best defensive record in the league and are looking increasingly set to play in the English Premier League next season.
However, one aspect that the club is lacking in is the area of the final third in offence. 64 goals in 40 matches averages roughly at 1.6 goals per match. This would mean that they have scored healthily. However, their goals have come against Sky Bet Championship opponents. If Villa were to qualify, they would be facing much higher quality opponents in the English Premier League including top sides like Chelsea, Manchester United, Manchester City, etc.
This would mean that Villa would be smart enough to opt for a new forward. It seems like that is exactly what the club is preparing for. They are reportedly in the hunt for Charlie Austin. Austin is a typical number nine who would add weight up front.
He can hold up the ball well, get his teammates into the game, he can be quick on the turn and most importantly he has a keen eye for goal which makes him absolutely precious to a team like Aston Villa. However, as for Austin, he should wait and see if Villa actually get promoted before agreeing to join them, otherwise he would have to play in the Championships.
