Newcastle United are ready to sacrifice Miguel Almiron in favour of signing Villarreal superstar Arnaut Danjuma next season.
According to the print edition of Sunday Mirror, as relayed by The Boot Room, Newcastle United are weighing up a move for Arnaut Danjuma. The Villarreal winger has emerged as one of the top targets for coach Eddie Howe ahead of the summer as he looks to shore up his options in the final third.
Newcastle, though, are aware of Danjuma’s hefty price tag, and in an attempt to lower Villarreal’s valuation, they are open to including Miguel Almiron in a player plus cash deal. It is a deal that could make sense for the Magpies, who were going to allow Almiron to leave St James’ Park in the summer, in any case.
Formerly of Atlanta United in the MLS, Almiron has fallen down in the pecking order at Newcastle United due to his lack of productivity in the final third. Despite being a playmaker, the Paraguayan international has registered five assists in 115 competitive appearances for the Magpies.
As a result, the 28-year-old has lost his place in the side under Eddie Howe, mustering a total of just 13 starts in the league this term. He is yet to even register a single goal or assist in 28 league appearances.
Newcastle, though, still feel there is some value attached to Almiron. They want to use him as a makeweight in the deal to sign Danjuma, who has been a revelation since his move from Bournemouth last summer.
Indeed, the Dutchman has been tearing up La Liga, racking up eight goals and three assists in just 20 league appearances. He has performed well in the Champions League as well, netting five goals. His contributions in front of goal have been critical in helping Villarreal reach the quarter-final stage, where they will lock horns with Bayern Munich.
However, Newcastle are set to face stiff competition in the race to sign Danjuma. The Dutchman is a target for both Everton and West Ham, whereas top sides like Liverpool and Manchester United have been keeping close tabs on his development as well.
Villarreal also appear unlikely to entertain the idea of signing Almiron as part of the swap deal. The Paraguayan international has shown no real quality in the Premier League during his time with Newcastle. The Spanish outfit, therefore, may prefer a cash-only deal and use Danjuma’s sale to inject some funds into the club.
Makes sense. I would swap them plus 20 mil in a heart beat.