NEWCASTLE have been offered the chance to sign Charlie Austin, according to the Newcastle Chronicle.

The striker has been banished from Saints’ first team schedule following a reported bust-up with manager Ralph hHasenhuttl.

However, it’s claimed that Austin is just one of the names on Newcastle chief Steve Bruce’s transfer list.

Hasenhuttl has already told the 30-year-old that he is allowed to leave this summer if he wants to play regular football again.

The Magpies this week broke their transfer record to land Brazilian ace Joelinton for £40m.

It’s claimed in the report that Austin would normally go against their policy on signings given his age, but with the window entering its final weeks there is an air of desperation on Tyneside.

The Daily Echo reported last week that the striker is yet to receive any interest from Premier League sides for his services, with him wanting to stay in the top-flight.

And that although the club would prefer to see a deal materialise quickly, they know that it's a situation which could drag on.

It's in Saints' best interests if he can find a club quickly as it will free up some wages and allow Hasenhuttl to continue adding to his squad.

The Austrian has already splashed out £29m on Che Adams and Moussa Djenepo, but that's been balanced by the sales of Matt Targett, Manolo Gabbiadini, Sam Gallagher and the small fee they received for Dutch midfielder Jordy Clasie.