Arsene Wenger: Why I'm baffled by this January transfer

ARSENE WENGER admits he was surprised by Southampton's acquisition of striker Charlie Austin.

 

Arsene Wenger surprised to see Charlie Austin leave QPR on the cheap

 

The 26-year-old joined the ranks at St Mary's during the January window, costing the Saints just £4million from QPR.

And Wenger admits he was shocked to see the striker leave the Championship outfit for such a small fee.

 

Austin, who scored 18 goals in his debut Premier League campaign last year, scored on his Southampton debut in the 1-0 win over Manchester United.

Speaking about the deal, Wenger said: “Yes. I was surprised how cheap he was. I was surprised that he was on the market and not many teams came in for him.

 

Charlie Austin scored the winner against Manchester United on his Southampton debut

 

“He has shown his value straight away when he came on against Man United (to score the winning goal).”

Wenger's Arsenal side go up against the 6ft 2in striker later tonight when Southampton travel to the Emirates Stadium (7:45pm).