Newcastle in pole position to sign Charlie Austin

Newcastle United are front-runners in the chase for Queens Park Rangers star Charlie Austin.

The 25-year-old has been linked with a switch away from Loftus Road, following the R's relegation to the Championship last season.

The likes of Chelsea, Crystal Palace and West Ham United have shown interest in the player's signature in recent weeks, but The Express claims that the Magpies are closing in on Austin's signature after tabling a £14million bid.

Austin scored 18 league goals for the West London side last season.