The new Southampton striker moved to St Mary's for a cut-price fee from QPR, and the West Ham co-chairman says he would have moved for the star had he been aware of his price
West Ham United co-chairman David Sullivan admits that he would have taken a gamble on Charlie Austin had he known that the new Southampton striker was available for £4 million.
The former QPR striker moved to St Mary’s in January and made an immediate impact, scoring the winning goal on his debut against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Ronald Koeman’s men are preparing to face the Hammers this weekend, and Sullivan says that he regrets not rivalling the Saints for the forward’s signature.
"Our next league game is away at Southampton and I just want to clarify my views on the Charlie Austin situation,” he wrote in West Ham’s programme ahead of their win over Aston Villa on Tuesday.
“Contrary to reports, he is a player I have always greatly admired and his climb through the divisions is inspiring. I once said at £12m he was a gamble, with his injury record.
“However, if his financial demands are reasonable, Southampton have got fantastic value at £4m.
"Had I known he was available at that price, I would have taken the gamble myself, and I am sure half the Premier League clubs would have as well."
- Goal