Bristol City could be lining up a remarkable fallback option amid fears they will fail in their bid to land Arsenal's Eddie Nketiah.
The Gunners youngster has been the Robins' priority for the vacant striker berth this transfer window, but it seems he is instead destined to join Leeds United on loan on deadline day despite being booked in for a medical at Ashton Gate on Wednesday.
However, it seems City are not resting on their laurels.
Head coach Lee Johnson and CEO Mark Ashton have reportedly turned their attentions to Southampton's Charlie Austin.
Football Insider reports the Robins are considering a hugely audacious late swoop for the England international before Thursday's 5pm cut-off.
Deemed surplus to requirements at St Mary's, the 30-year-old has been linked with a move to a number of Premier League clubs but nothing has materialised as yet.
Although he has been prolific at times in both the top flight and the Championship, Austin endured a frustrating season under Mark Hughes and Ralph Hassenhuttl respectively, making 27 appearances and scoring just three times.
Bristol City have funds available following the sales of Adam Webster and Lloyd Kelly for big money this summer, however they will have to convince Austin to drop down to the second tier.
