Shane Long to Liverpool rumour handed significant boost

A few Premier League teams might be kicking themselves at missing out on the chance to sign Charlie Austin for a knock-down price.

The QPR striker scored 18 goals as the Rs were relegated last season, and despite playing just 16 times this campaign due to injuries he reached double-figures back in December. With Austin out of contract in the summer, Southampton look to have pounced, with the Daily Telegraph reporting that the Saints are on the verge of securing his services for just £4m. The 26-year-old was linked with Manchester United last summer, while Watford and Crystal Palace are also thought to have entered talks with QPR. His arrival might speed up Shane Long's rumoured move to Liverpool, allowing Austin to compete with Graziano Pelle for a starting place at St Mary's. And a successful start on the south coast might even be enough for Austin to force his way back into the England reckoning ahead of Euro 2016.