Queens Park Rangers have rejected an opening offer worth £12 million from managerless Leicester City for Charlie Austin.

Austin, a £4 million signing from Burnley in the summer of 2013, enjoyed an impressive first season in the top flight despite QPR’s relegation and was rewarded for his 18 league goals with a call-up to Roy Hodgson’s full England squad for the summer internationals against the Republic of Ireland and Slovenia.

West Ham United and Southampton, who have a campaign in the Europa League ahead, may also enter the running for the striker’s signature. Newcastle United are also interested while Crystal Palace, who have yet to add to their ranks this summer, have tentatively explored the possibility of a player plus cash deal.