'Certainly not' - Juventus £25m transfer message as Newcastle confirm Miguel Almiron status
Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe insists that Miguel Almiron's head has not been turned during what has been a testing January for the Paraguay star.
Almiron's agent remains in talks with MLS side Atlanta United but for now he remains a big part of Howe's plans this season. Bearing in mind that the American transfer window until April there is no hurry to get a deal done before the end of the Premier League's winter trading period.
Howe also confirmed that Newcastle have had a bid from Juventus but the Serie A side have not been close to an agreement. Speaking on Almiron's situation, Howe said: "I think that Miggy's head has been very, very solidly here. He's been brilliant in training this week and I've seen not one moment where I thought 'oh, I need to address this or speak to him or have a deeper conversation'
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"I think we're both aware of the situation. Yes, there is interest in him from other clubs. There is potentially a chance he could leave before the window, but until that moment, and if that moment never arises, he's still a valuable member of the squad.
"We love him to bits, he's got a great energy and character that's never changed for a second, been the ultimate professional. And let's see what happens."
Juventus sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli has been in dialogue with Newcastle on a defender Lloyd Kelly, but with the Magpies insisting on an obligation of £25million after a loan deal, the former European Cup winners aren't keen on such a commitment.
Howe said: "I think it's a slightly different situation with Lloyd. I've seen a little bit of the speculation on Lloyd. We've certainly not had any bid anywhere close to making the club make a decision on that.
"Lloyd's an integral part of what we're doing from my perspective. His challenge is to try and work his way into the team. He's only just arrived, so I think he's got a lot to achieve here. So, it's a very different situation."