Report: Charlie Austin poised to join Newcastle United

Queens Park Rangers striker Charlie Austin is closing in on a return to the Premier League with a move to Newcastle United, according to reports.

The 25-year-old scored 18 goals for the Hoops last season, but couldn't prevent his side from being relegated.

However, Steve McClaren is willing to pay £15m to bring Austin back to the top flight, according to The Express.

McClaren worked with Austin during his brief spell at Loftus Road last season, and is keen to work with Austin again, the newspaper adds.

QPR recently turned down a £12m offer from Leicester City for the striker, who joined the club from Burnley in 2013.