West Ham United have made themselves serious contenders in the race for the signature of Queens Park Rangers' Charlie Austin, it is being reported.

The QPR striker is wanted by a host of Premier League clubs and according to the Evening Standard, will cost any potential buyer £15 million.

The Hammers made Pedro Obiang their first summer signing last week and are looking at attacking options, with Chelsea’s Loic Remy also a target.

Austin has been subject to rumours of a move to Newcastle United, who appointed Steve McClaren as their new boss, and Southampton.

The 25-year-old, who was selected for the latest England squad, scored 18 times in the Premier League for relegated QPR last term, and has grabbed 17 goals or more in every campaign for the last seven years.