AFC Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe has reiterated his stance that he will not discuss potential transfer targets with the media.

Last month, the Cherries were linked with summer moves for two players from Bristol City and Celtic respectively.

Since then the Sun has once again linked AFC Bournemouth with striker Charlie Austin.

Austin has been linked with AFC Bournemouth for a number of years. Howe first attempted to sign him when he was at Poole Town, but due to a 16-month transfer embargo by the Football League, Austin would eventually make the move to Swindon.

Howe did eventually get his man, whilst manager of Burnley, in January 2011 and was linked again prior to his move to Southampton.

The Sun have reported…

“Bournemouth, Leicester and Aston Villa interested in signing Charlie Austin if Southampton get relegated”

Asked about the speculation ahead of the game with Crystal Palace, Howe told the Daily Echo…

“I think it’s hugely disrespectful to speak about other teams’ players.

“How can you enter a discussion about another team’s player? I would be very disappointed if another club did that to us.

“I made the decision very early in my management career that I don’t think it’s right and I don’t think it should be done, out of respect for the player, the team and the manager of the other club…”

“…It doesn’t work well for the press because they want to write a story and I understand that, but I don’t think it’s right.”

Your Say…

Sorry Roger wrote…

Southampton’s wages bill last season was £108.7 million and has probably increased this year. They may also have been too arrogant to insert relegation clauses in some or all of their contracts. If they go down they will be desperate to unload their high earners, not just Austin.

Expect lots more speculation like this. One journalist to look out for is Jeremy Wilson in the Telegraph who is very close to the Southampton board. (Which is why he chirrups on about the “Southampton model”). If he starts talking about potential moves there may be some substance to it. – Join the conversation here