Charlie Austin: West Ham chief David Sullivan reveals he would have signed Southampton ace for £4m
Southampton were the club who ultimately ensnared the 26-year-old away from Loftus Road at a bargain price
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.West Ham United co-chairman David Sullivan has revealed he would have signed Charlie Austin if he had known Queens Park Rangers were willing to accept £4m.
Southampton were the club who ultimately ensnared the 26-year-old away from Loftus Road last month and benefitted almost immediately with the England striker scoring a winner at Manchester United on his debut.
Sullivan attracted criticism last August when citing details of Austin’s failed Hull medical to justify his decision not to sign him on several occasions in the previous years. Describing the Saints’ hitman as a ‘big risk’, the Hammers chief has since moved to explain further his comments.
He said: “Our next league game is away at Southampton and I just want to clarify my views on the Charlie Austin situation.
“Contrary to reports, he is a player I have always greatly admired and his climb through the divisions is inspiring.
“I once said at £12m he was a gamble, with his injury record. However, if his financial demands are reasonable, Southampton have got fantastic value at £4m.
“Had I known he was available at that price, I would have taken the gamble myself — and I am sure half the Premier League clubs would have as well.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments