Transfer gossip: Speculation over Austin’s future continues
Charlie Austin telling Sky Sports News HQ that he does not expect to leave QPR in January has led to reports he would reject moves to the likes of Manchester United and Tottenham if they came in for him.
A number of clubs are reported to want the striker, but only Leicester and Crystal Palace made approaches for him during the summer transfer window.
Austin has therefore been keen to keep his options open as his contract expires at the end of the season, when he could potentially secure a move to a top club willing to sign him on a free transfer.
However, his comments this week have led to claims he would turn down United or Spurs if the chance to join them in January arose.
The Daily Star, for example, has declared that those clubs have been ‘dealt a blow’ by his remarks.
The north-east media, which has continued to insist Newcastle have pursued a deal to sign Austin, has also reacted to the 26-year-old’s Sky interview.
The Shields Gazette reckon Newcastle are now looking at other targets ahead of the January window, as apparently are Sunderland, who were also recently linked with Austin.
