Report: Sunderland monitoring Charlie Austin

Queens Park Rangers striker Charlie Austin has emerged as a transfer target for struggling Sunderland, according to reports.

The 26-year-old scored 18 Premier League goals for the Hoops last season, but has been hampered by injury as QPR bid for a return to the top flight.

However, with the Black Cats firmly in the relegation zone, Sam Allardyce is considering reinforcing his frontline with a move for Austin despite his injury woes, reports the Daily Mail.

To fund the deal, Allardyce is considering offloading Jermain Defoe, the report adds.

Austin, who was playing non-League football for Poole Town just six years ago, has scored seven goals in the Championship this season.