Chris Ramsey believes “knee-jerk reactions” by Premier League clubs could lead to increased interest in QPR striker Charlie Austin once the season begins.
Austin is in Rangers’ squad for today’s Championship opener against Charlton as speculation over his future continues.
Several clubs have been reported to be pursuing a deal to sign him despite only Leicester having made an approach.
It has been claimed that Newcastle are attempting to capture Austin, while West Ham are among the other clubs to have been linked with him. So too are Tottenham, who have not shown an interest.
Everton, who have shown some interest and have been monitoring Austin since relegated QPR were last in the Championship, are the latest club reported to be looking to sign him.
But Rangers insist they want £15m for the 25-year-old – and head coach Ramsey believes top-flight clubs that make a poor start to the campaign could be tempted to do business.
“When the games start and people are successful or not successful, I think the interest will heighten,” said Ramsey.
“Not everyone can win, so there’s going to be people who are frightened about their ability to score goals during the season and then there’s going to be knee-jerk reactions.
“Hopefully they’re knee-jerk reactions that don’t affect us too badly.”
Should Austin still be at Loftus Road after the transfer window closes, which Rangers believe is unlikely, the club could face losing him for reduced fee in January or no fee at all next summer if he sees out the remaining year of his contract.
“But on the other hand you could gain more by him staying and making the club successful,” Ramsey argued.
“Either way, as long as the player does what he’s capable of, which we’re sure he will, everyone’s happy.”
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This post was last modified on 08/08/2015