Southampton have emerged as the new favourites to sign QPR striker Charlie Austin next month.
Ronald Koeman’s side are planning to make another move for the 26-year-old after failing to agree a fee with QPR in the summer.
Koeman wants to add another forward to his squad, especially as Jay Rodriguez continues to struggle for fitness.
The England international faces another eight weeks out with a foot injury having missed all of last season with a serious knee problem.
QPR will consider selling Austin, who scored his eighth goal of the season in the 1-0 victory over Leeds at the weekend, for £8m in January, even if they are challenging for promotion from the Championship.
A number of clubs have expressed an interest, including Aston Villa, Newcastle, Bournemouth and West Brom, but they are unlikely to succeed.
Standard Sport revealed last month that Austin is not prepared to join a club struggling against relegation, especially as he can leave Loftus Road on a free transfer five months later. But it is believed he would consider a switch to St Mary’s Stadium to work under Koeman, whose side are in 10th, just three points off the top six.
Meanwhile, Wolves manager Kenny Jackett claims he wants to stay at the club despite being on QPR’s shortlist to be their next permanent coach.
He said: “I’m committed to Wolves and speculation is just that, speculation.”
