‘Training today’ - Eddie Howe breaks silence as Newcastle United transfer nearly confirmed

The Magpies are locked in negotiations with Atlanta United - the club he arrived from six years ago - about a potential £11million deal. Offloading Almiron will also trim around £60,000 per week off the wage bill.

Just one Premier League start all season has made the Paraguayan surplus to requirements at St James’ Park as Toon chiefs aim to balance a tight FFP/PSR situation. When given a chance against Bromley last weekend, Almiron underperformed a display that has seemingly rung the death knell on his St James’ Park career.

Speaking to reporters pre-match, Howe revealed Almiron is expected in training today and could be involved tomorrow. But the United boss hinted at an exit being possible before the transfer window slams shut on January 31.

“The latest is we are expecting him in training today and to be part of our squad tomorrow. I’d say, with him, anything can happen from this point. My concern is to try and get the squad focused (for Bournemouth.)

“He has been top class. He, as you know, his playing persona and personality is happy. He’s a brilliant professional. Miggy is one who will come in and lives his life through the football club. His training performances, his focus, his personality have been very consistent. I have no issues with him on that side of things.”

Howe also suggested selling a wide player is “not ideal” given his lack of first-team options. As has been the case in previous windows, transfer decisions are governed by financial restrictions.

“It’s not ideal (selling a winger),” Howe added. “I don't think it’s ideal from our side, we don’t want to lose players but we know there’s a reality to PSR and the ongoing managing of that situation. We’ve said many times over the past couple of weeks, decisions aren’t being made for football they’re being made because we potentially have to (for financial reasons).”