Newcastle United hold talks as 'confidence grows' over January deal - £12m price tag

It is looking increasingly likely that Miguel Almiron will leave Newcastle United this month, according to reports.

Almiron joined the Magpies in January 2019 for a then club-record £21million. Since then, the Paraguayan has made 221 appearances and been at the heart of some iconic moments, with his opener in the 4-1 win over Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League last season still fresh in the memory.

However, the last 12 months have seen Almiron fall down the pecking order at St James’ Park. For example, his start in Sunday’s 3-1 FA Cup third round win over Bromley was only his five since March.

The winger had the opportunity to join Saudi Pro League side Al Shabab last January but opted against the mid-season move. In the summer, MLS club Charlotte FC held talks with Newcastle and the player but were ultimately unable to agree a fee.

With the transfer window back open until February 3, Almiron is once again attracting interest. Charlotte FC assistant manager Christian Fuchs recently revealed he was a fan of the winger, while it is understood teams across Europe and Brazil are also monitoring the situation.

As per The Telegraph, Newcastle value Almiron at £12m but as it stands, no club is willing to pay that currently while the player’s wage demands are also a sticking point. There is, however a “growing confidence internally” that 30-year-old will leave in the coming weeks.

Asked about the player’s future recently, United head coach Eddie Howe said: “Well, his future is very much here at the moment. I think Miggy has trained brilliantly this season, he’s ready to play and he’s an important player.

“We’re not blessed with a huge number of wide players so anyone we have here is vitally important and Miggy has always proved for us how effective he is when he does play.

“I’ll say the same for any player until the day they leave, their future is here and he needs to focus on the next game.”