West Bromwich Albion have completed the signing of Charlie Austin from Southampton for a reported £4 million. The 30-year-old is the seventh arrival at The Hawthorns this summer.
Charlie Austin Signs for West Brom
Last Season
Austin struggled for starts last season as Southampton finished 16th in the Premier League. He made 25 appearances for the Saints last season, with 14 coming from the bench.
However, this was partly due to the arrival of Ralph Hasenhuttl at Southampton, who preferred Shane Long and Danny Ings as his front two.
How Will Charlie Austin Fit In At West Brom?
Charlie Austin’s premier league experience and quality will likely make him first choice under Slaven Bilic. This is despite the arrival of fellow striker Kenneth Zohore from Cardiff City.
West Brom were in desperate need of quality additions up front after losing both Jay Rodriguez and Dwight Gayle. The pair top-scored for the Baggies last season with 22 and 23 retrospectively. Rodriguez has returned to Burnley on a permanent basis, while Gayle returned to Newcastle United following his loan spell.
As a result, they need a quality addition upfront. Following the arrivals of both Zohore and Austin, they will be hoping that they have found adequate replacements.
Promotion Contenders?
Slaven Bilic will be hoping that he can take West Brom back to the Premier League at the second time of asking. They failed to deliver last season, suffering a knockout blow in the Championship play-off semi-final.
However, The Baggies are better equipped this time around. They have added players that are Championship proven, and Slaven Bilic has Premier league managerial experience.
As a result, they are deemed by many to be promotion contenders. They saw success in their first game of the season, winning 2-1 away at Nottingham Forest. West Brom will be hoping to start the season in good form following their away win.
Main Photo
Embed from Getty Images
