Villa target Austin left out of Southampton’s pre-season training camp squad

Southampton striker and Aston Villa target Charlie Austin has been left out of the Saints’ pre-season Austria training camp squad.

BBC reporter Adam Blackmore shared the news that Austin was one of the notable absentees left out of the 26-man squad, which has increased speculation over the 30-year-old’s future. 

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Austin, Lemina, Carrillo & Gallagher notable… https://t.co/dKfyf3dMsv (@AdamBlackmore)

Villa have recently reportedly made contact to the Saints regarding the possibility of signing Austin, with Dean Smith looking to add proven Premier League quality to his ever-growing squad. 

Southampton are willing to part ways with the former Burnley and Queens Park Rangers striker ahead of the new season, with boss Ralph Hasenhuttl happy to allow several first-team members to leave St Mary’s ahead of the new campaign. 

Villa have already brought in left-back Matt Targett from Southampton, with the two clubs seemingly having a good relationship when it comes to discussing transfers. 

Smith has already brought in six summer additions, and Austin could well be the seventh, especially following the striker’s pre-season absence with the Saints.