Cardiff City are reportedly interested in signing West Brom striker Charlie Austin on a season-long loan deal according to The Telegraph.

Austin has struggled for consistent game time with the Baggies in recent years, and could be heading for the exit door at The Hawthorns in the near future.

The forward made just 18 league starts for Slaven Bilic's side as they won promotion back into the Premier League in last year's campaign.

He is currently behind the likes of Hal Robson-Kanu, Callum Robinson and Kenneth Zohore in the pecking order with West Brom, as they adjust to life back in the top-flight, with Austin not making a single league appearance so far this season.

It had previously been claimed by The Sun's Tom Barclay that Austin was set to sign for Derby County, but for one reason or another, that move is yet to materialise.

But their loss could be Derby County's gain, as the Bluebirds look to challenge for a top-six finish in the Championship under the management of Neil Harris.

Cardiff are currently sat 16th in the Championship table, and will be hoping they can get back to winning ways after a winless run which now stands at two matches.

The Bluebirds take on Preston North End at Deepdale when they return to action after the international break this weekend, in what is certain to be a tricky test for Cardiff.

Do Cardiff City and Swansea City have these things in common or not? Test your knowledge in our quiz!

 

The Verdict: 

This could be a smart bit of business.

With Kieffer Moore picking up an injury for Wales whilst on international duty against England, Cardiff could certainly benefit from adding a striker to their squad before the transfer window closes.

Austin has proven experience in the Championship, and will be eager to get his career back on track after a frustrating few seasons where he has been frozen out of the West Brom team.

If he can to that, then I wouldn't be surprised to see the Bluebirds challenging for a top-six finish in the second-tier once again under the management of Neil Harris.