Newcastle United are reportedly keen on Atlanta United’s Miguel Almiron.
According to MLSSoccer.com, Atlanta United have already rejected an offer of up to $25million (£19million) for star playmaker Miguel Almiron, amid links to Newcastle United.
Almiron, 23, emerged as a star in his native Paraguay with Cerro Porteno, scoring six times in 39 games to earn a move to Argentina with Lanus in 2015, where he lasted just a year.
The playmaker’s performances in South America handed him a big move to Atlanta United earlier this year, with the MLS expansion team making him one of their most important players.
Almiron has responded with sensational numbers. In 31 MLS appearances this season, Almiron has racked up nine goals and eight assists, meaning he has been directly involved in almost a quarter of the goals in Gerardo Martino’s side.
Unsurprisingly, Almiron’s performances across the pond are attracting major interest, with Calcio Mercato recently claiming that Arsenal, Newcastle United and Inter Milan are all keen to land the Paraguayan international.
However, MLSSoccer.com report that Atlanta United have already received one offer between $20million and $25million (£15.25million and £19million) – but have rejected it as they attempt to keep him in Georgia.
The identity of the club to have offered the deal is unknown, and it not only means that Atlanta United will be demanding an MLS record fee for his signature, but it would also mean that Newcastle would have to pay a club-record fee to land Almiron.
It’s over 12 years since the Magpies paid their £16million club-record fee for Michael Owen, and whilst Almiron would be a superb addition given Rafael Benitez’s need for a true number 10, he may well need a club takeover in order to lodge a bid that Atlanta United will consider.