Eddie Howe praises 'magnificent' winger after Newcastle United transfer approach

Officials from Charlotte FC were in the UK earlier this week in ambitious attempt to bring the Paraguayan back to the MLS before the US deadline on Wednesday. However, following discussions, an agreement couldn’t to be reached with Charlotte unable to come up with the necessary funds to meet the Magpies’ demands.

Almiron - who turned 30 in February - still has two years left on his contract, putting United in a position to command a fee decent fee. And when you consider that a record transfer fee for a MLS club is £12.5million - Thiago Almada to Atlanta United - no agreement isn’t a total surprise.

The winger is set to feature in Newcastle’s squad for their Premier League opener at home to Southampton on Saturday.

“There has been a lot of speculation with Miggy over the summer and I’m sure that would have been very difficult for him,” said Howe. “There would have been a lot of speculation when he was playing for his country [at the Copa America].

“He’s a really valued member of the squad and I’m sure that speculation will have been difficult for him to manage. He is very much with us and we very much value his qualities and what he brings. I hope he has a great season.”

There have been major question marks over Almiron’s future since he turned down a move to the Saudi Pro League at the beginning of the year. As reported by NewcastleWorld, United were willing to let him leave but the player himself decided against making such a major move mid-season.

Saudi Arabia could return for Almiron but it is increasingly that he will stay as Howe praised his attitude and professionalism.

Howe added: “We’ll work with Miggy to try and get his game to the level it was two years ago where he was absolutely incredible for us. His commitment, attitude and professionalism is second to none, he is truly a magnificent person and professional.

“He is an important player for us and we don’t underestimate his qualities.”

Almiron has gone to make 209 appearances for the Magpies, scoring 30 times since joining from Atlanta United for a reported £21m in January 2019.