Report: Chelsea express interest in Queens Park Rangers' Charlie Austin

Chelsea have reportedly joined the race to sign striker Charlie Austin from Queens Park Rangers this summer.

Austin is under contract for another year with QPR but is likely to leave this summer after scoring 18 Premier League goals in his debut top-flight season as Rangers were relegated.

Newcastle United were thought to be leading the race for his signature and Austin is said to be keen on a move to Tyneside, but Chelsea's reported interest could change that.

According to ESPN, Chelsea are one of a number of clubs eyeing a move for the 25-year-old. The Blues are in need of another forward following the departure of Didier Drogba.

The Premier League champions have also been heavily linked with a move for Monaco's Radamel Falcao, who spent the 2014-15 season at Manchester United, with Jose Mourinho vowing to help the Colombian frontman.