According to the latest reports from the Chronicle, Newcastle United have been presented with an opportunity to sign Southampton striker Charlie Austin. The English forward is in the long list of names which Steve Bruce is now going through with managing director Lee Charnley.
The striker is already in the final year of his contract. It seems clear that the 30-year-old is surplus to requirement as he upset the manager Ralph Hasenhuttl with a dressing room rant. Southampton are reportedly willing to ship him away, and Newcastle United can sign him for a bargain price.
Why are Newcastle United after a forward?
The Magpies recently secured the signing of Joelinton for a record £40m fee. There is no doubt that a move like that would bring some sense of optimism among the club faithful, but there is still a need to reinforce the squad in various positions. The club has already sold the likes of Ayoze Perez and Joselu so one can understand why another forward would be on the agenda of the club.
Last season’s on-loan star Salomon Rondon has also gone away from the club’s grasp so we might see one or two new strikers being signed by the Tyneside outfit in this transfer window.
Is Austin a plausible option?
Joelinton should be the first choice striker for the upcoming season. Therefore Austin is likely being seen only as a backup option. The English striker has struggled with injuries in the past few years, but when fit, he is still a decent goalscorer in and around the box. We think that the Southampton man is worth considering, primarily because the Englishman is set to be available on a bargain price. Austin has been a bit of a late bloomer as he shot into the limelight after his impressive performances for QPR.
Austin’s record in the Premier League is quite alright as he has 34 goals and ten assists to his name in 106 appearances. With the backing of a new club and manager, we think that he can still come up with some crucial goals.
The 30-year-old is known for his hold up play and aerial prowess. His playing style is quite suited to the Premier League as he is tough to shrug off the ball. Austin possesses impressive finishing skills, and if presented with chances, he will find the back of the net more often than not. With the signing of Joelinton now done, Austin will be a smart backup option for the Toon.
