AUSTIN DEAL OFF AFTER FAILED MEDICAL

HULL have pulled the plug on a £4.5million move for Charlie Austin after the Burnley striker failed a medical. The Tigers are now set to turn their attention back to £6m-rated Celtic star Gary Hooper as they bid to strengthen their hand for a crack at the top flight.

Former brickie Austin’s dream Premier League move is in tatters after the 24-year-old – who has a history of shoulder problems – saw his move fall through on medical grounds.

Steve Bruce has been busy adding to his squad after leading his side to automatic promotion to the top flight in May.

But the Hull boss admits Austin (left) – who struck an impressive 28 goals for the Clarets last season – won’t be among the influx of new players plying their trade at the KC Stadium.

Austin has dislocated his shoulder three times in the past four years.

And disappointed Bruce admitted: “The deal for Charlie is now a non-starter.

Surprised

“There has been a bit of a problem with his medical, which is the worst scenario for everybody concerned. It’s an awful situation we find ourselves in, but the medical is not great so it looks as if it is a non-starter at the moment.

“I think Charlie’s surprised because he has not missed many games over the last couple of years.

“It’s a blow for him and a blow for us, but these medicals are so stringent and obviously he has got a problem.”

Shocked

Championship side Burnley have confirmed the transfer has collapsed because of “unforeseen complications”.

Bruce will now rekindle his efforts to land Hooper after ambitious Hull saw a £4m bid for the prolific Celtic striker turned down last month.

The Tigers chief is set to up his offer for the former Scunthorpe forward, who is keen to return to England to test himself in the Premier League.