Report: Southampton favourites to sign Charlie Austin

Southampton have reportedly jumped ahead of other Premier League suitors to become the favourites to sign Queens Park Rangers striker Charlie Austin.

It is widely expected that the 26-year-old will seal a January exit away from Loftus Road, where his contract has just six months left to run.

Aston Villa and Sunderland have recently been credited with an interest in the centre-forward, but he is not keen to join a club that is battling against relegation, according to the London Evening Standard.

The report adds that the Saints have now reignited their pursuit of the frontman, having failed to agree terms with QPR during the summer.

The West Londoners are said to value Austin, who has scored eight goals this season, at £8m.