Newcastle United have been offered the chance to sign unwanted Southampton striker Charlie Austin.
However, the 30-year-old is only one name on a lengthy list of players which Steve Bruce is now going through with managing director Lee Charnley.
Bruce had the green light to make squad improvements from Mike Ashley during talks earlier this month and the £40million arrival of Joelinton is said to be a signal of intent from the powers that be.
But they will need more signings to convince some fans to return to St James' Park after many opted against renewing season tickets.
Austin's situation is clear-cut with the Saints after being dumped from the squad that travelled to Austria and Ireland.
The striker is believed to have upset Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl after a dressing room rant last week.
At 30, Austin does not fit into Newcastle's previous transfer blueprint but the ex-Queens Park Rangers star would be available at a knockdown rate with just one year left on his current deal.
Southampton also want to move Austin on this summer.
With time running out for Bruce and Charnley in the window they may have to be philosophical about some deals but after Ashley sanctioned a spending spree during talks with the ex-Aston Villa boss, the club are hopeful of more additions after Joelinton.
Danny Rose and Andy Carroll are also on Bruce's list of possibilities.
