Sunderland tracking Charlie Austin

Premier League strugglers Sunderland are reportedly keeping tabs on Queens Park Rangers striker Charlie Austin.

The 26-year-old had been tipped to make a Premier League return over the summer, but he opted to remain at Loftus Road as a sign of showing commitment to his club.

Austin has since then kept up his good work at the Hoops, but their dismal Championship run has made him think over his future at the club.

According to The Mail, Black Cats boss Sam Allardyce is seriously considering a bid for the talented Englishman as he seeks to put an end to the club's dismal spell.

It is added that the likes of Jermaine Defoe and Sebastien Larsson could head out of the exit door to fund the transfer.

The former Burnley man has scored seven goals in the Championship this season.