Steve McClaren wants striker but won’t meet demands
Newcastle United are set to launch a formal bid for Queens Park Rangers striker Charlie Austin, with the fee believed to be around £13.25million.
The Magpies are desperate to strengthen their squad this summer after narrowly avoiding relegation last season, and McClaren has been financially backed by Mike Ashley in the transfer window.
Summer Signings for Newcastle
Newcastle have already landed Georginio Wijnaldum this summer for £14.5m and Aleksandar Mitrovic for £12.5m, with the duo set to be joined by Anderlecht centre-back Chancel Mbemba in a deal worth £8.5m.
The new trio could also be joined by Austin if Newcastle see their formal bid accepted by QPR.
However, McClaren is refusing to match the £15m demands and will only offer £13.25m for the England striker.
Austin scored 18-goals last season, but couldn’t keep QPR in the Premier League and after relegation back to the Championship, it’s believed the striker won’t be staying at Loftus Road.
Shoulder Issues
If Newcastle do have their bid accepted, they will put Austin through an extensive medical to make sure his shoulder problems are past him.
The striker is known to have serious shoulder issues, which was a reason a transfer broke down in the past between Hull City and Burnley.
Newcastle will make sure that Austin goes through a thorough examination before finalising any deal.
Written by Alex Batt – @AlexBatt
