Sheffield United move ahead of rivals in race to sign Premier League ace

Dan Butterfield
James Ward-Prowse, Charlie Austin, Southampton celeb

Sheffield United have reportedly moved ahead of their Steel City rivals Sheffield Wednesday in the bid to sign Southampton forward Charlie Austin.

Austin has been subject to a interest from a number of clubs including both Sheffield clubs and newly-promoted Aston Villa.

However, a tweet from United’s Billy Sharp has hinted that Austin may be close to a move to Bramall Lane. In reply to a tweet from Austin’s wife Bianca, Sharp noted the colour of the Southampton forwards suit, he wrote “Attire on point – the blades”, followed by a laughing emoji.

The tweet put Blades fans on alert as they look to beat their rivals to the 29-year-old. They should have a significant advantage over Wednesday after promotion to the Premier league last season.

Aston Villa could provide the biggest challenge to Sheffield United as they look to replace Tammy Abraham who looks unlikely to leave Chelsea on loan again amid their transfer ban.

 

Charlie Austin has enjoyed a huge rise from non-league to the Premier League over the past decade. Initially playing for QPR in the top division, he joined Southampton for £4million in January 2016.

He has 20 goals in 76 games for the Saints but managed only 22 appearances across all competitions last season. He scored three goals for Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side.