Southampton favourites to land Charlie Austin

Southampton are reportedly heading the queue to land Queens Park Rangers hotshot Charlie Austin.

The 26-year-old has been tipped to exit Loftus Road in the New Year with his contract due to expire in six months' time.

Recent reports have suggested that the striker is discontent with the R's spell in the Championship, and may well a return to the top tier with either Aston Villa or Sunderland.

However, Evening Standard claims that the Saints have jumped ahead of their league rivals, and look set to make an offer in the winter transfer window.

It is also known that Austin could favour a switch to Ronald Koeman's side as they are unlikely to be in a relegation fight this season.

The West London side currently rate Austin at around £8m.