Charlie Austin is currently in talks with Australian A-League outfit Brisbane Roar over a possible move.

The striker departed QPR following the expiration of his contract at the end of the season.

According to Sky Sports (16.40, 16/6), Austin held a positive meeting with the Brisbane club, speaking with their head coach Warren Moon.

This could put his potential move to stay in the EFL in doubt, with both Reading and Cardiff City aiming to sign the former Southampton man.

The 32-year old is hoping to play in Australia before his career finishes and with him turning 33 this summer the time is certainly ticking on that bucket list item.

Austin was disappointed with his exit from Loftus Road, with Rangers failing to offer the Englishman a contract to remain at the club.

The former West Brom played 34 times in the Championship for the London club this season, starting 15 times.

He scored five goals this campaign as Mark Warburton’s side earned an 11th place finish.

This was his second stint at QPR having arrived in 2021 from the Baggies.

His first stint from 2013 to 2016 saw him earn promotion with the club, scoring 44 goals in three seasons, including an impressive tally of 18 in the Premier League in 2014-15.

The Verdict

This would be an exciting career move for Austin, to get to play in Australia would be a totally new experience.

However, this will come as a blow to Reading and Cardiff.

Both clubs could use his experience up front, if even in a squad player capacity, this season.

The striker is still capable of contributing plenty of goals even if he is past his best years in the game.

But the allure of moving down under may be too strong to convince him to remain in the Championship.