Championship side Derby County are reportedly in talks to sign West Bromwich Albion striker Charlie Austin. According to Sky Sports, talks are ongoing for the 31-year-old forward who has entered the final year of his current contract. It is believed that Austin would be open to a move having fallen down the pecking order at the Hawthorns since the Baggies won promotion to the Premier League.
Derby Interested in Striker Charlie Austin
Wages Could Be an Issue for Derby in Chase for Charlie Austin
Although there appears definite interested from Derby in the former Southampton striker, Derbyshire Live believe that wages could be a stumbling block in any deal being completed. After West Brom secured promotion, it is believed that many of the squad, including Charlie Austin, would have received a pay rise. With the transfer window ending this month, a compromise between the two clubs and the player may have to be reached for the deal to happen.
Austin has yet to appear for the Baggies in the Premier League this season but has featured in the Carabao Cup.
Boost Needed to Get Season Going
Derby have endured a tough start to the season. They are currently 22nd in the Championship having lost their opening three games, scoring just one goal. With the Rams struggling in front of goal, the signing of an experienced forward such as Charlie Austin could be the confidence boost they need.
Austin has been prolific in the past when playing in the Championship. His previous five seasons in England’s second-tier brought 78 goals for the teams he played for. His lastest, last seasons promotion-winning campaign with West Brom, saw Austin net 10 league goals.
Phillip Cocu Not Keen to Discuss Transfer Targets
Local press have asked about Cocu’s transfer targets ahead of the transfer window closing; however, they found the Derby manager in no mood to discuss targets: “I think we have to focus now on the players who are available, who are in the squad, who are part of the club, and put the energy on that. It is well known, and I have said we are not done, as a club. I would rather put the energy and the focus on the players we have available at this time.”
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