The Southampton forward could be the ideal summer acquisition for Newcastle United.
Southampton’s Charlie Austin
Popular bookmakers SkyBET have installed the Magpies as second favourites in the race to sign Saints striker Charlie Austin, although at 8/1, they must still be considered as outsiders, with Bournemouth touted as 3/1 favourites.
The 27-year-old made his first appearance on Saturday for Southampton since December, with a five minute cameo, as Claude Puel looks to nurse him back to fitness after the serious shoulder injury he suffered five months ago.
He has proven pedigree of scoring consistently at the highest level, and there will be plenty of clubs interested in signing him this summer, if he is made available, in spite of the lengthy period he has spent on the sidelines.
Newcastle could very well be one of those teams, with Benitez looking to provide more competition for Dwight Gayle in forward areas, and SkyBET believe there is an outside chance that Austin could end up at St James’ Park this summer, listing the Toon as 8/1 second favourites to sign the former QPR man.
Bournemouth remain favourites at 3/1, however.
Southampton’s Charlie Austin celebrates
In spite of this, Claude Puel will surely want to keep hold of Austin, what with his side struggling for goals as it is. The Saints have proven throughout the years that they are nothing if not a selling club, however, and should either the Cherries or the Magpies come in with a firm offer for Austin during the off-season, nobody would be surprised to see him head for the St Mary’s exit door.
The attributes the powerful striker possesses are seemingly perfectly suited to Newcastle’s playing style, and his strength in the air would mean his game would ideally compliment Dwight Gayle’s style of play.
They could form a so-called ‘little and large’ partnership, and a dangerous one at that. With that in mind, Benitez should not hesitate to test the south coast outfit’s resolve by making a bid for Austin.
Southampton’s Charlie Austin
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