Southampton centre-forward Charlie Austin could head to newly-promoted Aston Villa this summer, according to the Sun.
The newspaper claims that Villa Park is a “possible destination” for the 29-year-old, who has been told by Saints manager Ralph Hasenhuttl that he is free to leave St Mary’s this summer [Mirror].
Austin scored just three goals in 27 appearances across all competitions for Southampton last season, but only managed to start 11 matches in the Premier League.
Good move for Aston Villa?
Austin is someone who has struggled to score goals in the last few years.
Since joining Southampton in 2016, he has only hit the back of the net 20 times in 81 total matches.
However he is still someone who is used to the Premier League with over 100 appearances to his name in England’s top-flight and he might be someone good to bring in and add some strength to Villa’s striker options this summer.
Dean Smith needs to sign players in basically every area of his squad and Austin’s strength and aerial ability could be something that will be useful for the Villans as they aim to re-establish themselves in the Premier League next season.
This is Futbol rating 6/10
Likely to happen?
Austin is bound to leave Southampton this summer based on what Hasenhuttl has told him.
However he might be quite a pricey addition for Aston Villa, and that could put them off a move for the English striker.
According to statistics website Spotrac, Austin earns £70,000-a-week on his contract and as he has another two years remaining on his deal, it will be hard to pry him away from the south coast unless those wages are matched.
This is Futbol rating 3/10