Newcastle United transfer news: Charlie Austin signing would 'excite' fans says Michael Owen

Queens Park Rangers striker Charlie Austin would be the perfect solution to Newcastle United's goalscoring problems and can excite the St James' Park faithful, according to former forward Michael Owen. The 26-year-old continues to be linked with a move away from Loftus Road despite having stated his intent to remain with the Hoops for the remainder of the season.

Austin has netted 10 Championship goals in 12 starts for Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink's side and was expected to stay with the club until the expiry of his contract in the summer. However, that has not stifled rumours regarding his future. West Ham United and Crystal Palace, the latter of which were linked with a £7.5 ($10.8m) move for the Englishman according to The Sun, have both denied any interest in signing the player.

The Chronicle understands that after securing the signing of Henri Saivet, and amid the imminent addition of Jonjo Shelvey from Swansea City in a £12m deal according to Press Association, Newcastle are ready to revive their interest in Austin. Former Toon striker Owen has endorsed the report and says the signing would thrill supporters.

"Everybody gets excited when a big-money signing comes in, especially when it's a striker," the television pundit told The Chronicle. "They are hard to find at the moment, but it doesn't have to be big money. There are players out there who you wouldn't have to pay too much for.

"The one that springs to mind and has been touted is Charlie Austin. He scores goals and you know if you sign him and play him regularly, he will get you 15-plus goals a season, almost as a guarantee. That sort of signing might excite fans.

"I don't think Newcastle are doing much wrong in the transfer window. They have had some success stories in the last few years. Of course when you are buying from France and Holland you will get a couple wrong. Some won't settle or take to the Premier League. But they seem to pull one out of the fire quite regularly."