West Brom's search for a new striker has taken another twist with Charlie Austin now on the radar, according to Sky Sports News [transfer centre 8/8, 08:23 a.m.].

The club are in talks with the Southampton striker in what will likely be a multi-million-pound deal, as The Baggies' need for another frontman becomes increasingly urgent.

In recent days they have seemingly lost out on Albian Ajeti and could fail to sign other targets such as Nahki Wells and Adam Buksa.

The club has only signed Kenneth Zohore to boost their attacking options this summer, despite losing 45 goals from last season with Jay Rodriguez and Dwight Gayle no longer at the club.

Austin has been linked to Fulham, Aston Villa and Crystal Palace this summer and he certainly looks out of favour at The Saints, only starting five games since Ralph Hassenhuttl's arrival at St.Mary's in December 2018.

It is therefore likely that they will be keen to do a deal to move him on, with the striker only scoring three goals last season.

The Verdict

Austin would be a great addition for West Brom but only if he can get back to full fitness and put his injury problems firmly behind him.

He has always done well in the Championship in the past, whether for Burnley or QPR and has guaranteed goals in the past, but there is some doubt if he can repeat those exploits, as he has struggled for form recently.

Despite that, Slaven Bilic is good at getting the most out of his players and if he plays in a way which suits Austin then he should help himself to a decent goal tally across the season.

West Brom create a lot of chances and have the players to create for Austin, which Southampton lacked, and that should help the 30-year-old to rediscover his best form.