Newcastle United already have perfect solution for FFP conundrum and long-term Almiron replacement
Newcastle United may be about to unearth their first gem of the Dan Ashworth era
The summer transfer window may have closed just over a month ago, but there’s already plenty of chatter on social media relating to where Newcastle United will strengthen next. Kalvin Phillips has already been linked with a move to St. James’ Park while there further talk of younger striker or an attacking midfielder bolster Eddie Howe’s ranks.
They are similar positions to those mentioned in the summer, with right-wing also a possible area to strengthen. However, Miguel Almiron is showing last season’s upturn in form was no fluke, continuing to impress in the black and white shirt.
The Paraguayan opened Newcastle United’s account in the Champions League with a brilliant strike against PSG and has his stock has seen a remarkable rise under the Magpies head coach. However, there can be no denying the squad outside of Almiron looks a little light in terms of output in the final third and the winger is approaching the twilight part of his career.
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Jacob Murphy is a notable grafter, but his goals and assist ratio could do with improvement. That being said, there is no immediate suggestion that Newcastle will splash the cash again in January in an attempt to qualify for European football once more.
Much of their January budget is likely to be dictated by how well they do in the Champions League, with qualification from the group of death, a huge boost in terms of prize money and passing Financial Fair Play regulations. The demolition of PSG was the Magpies announcing their arrival once again on the European stage and they’re here to stay.
For that to happen though, they will need constant improvement to keep up and try to surpass the Premier League heavyweights, with Financial Fair Play limiting their ability to grow. We have already seen from the arrivals of Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall in the summer, a sharp focus on talent for the future, who are also ready for the first-team squad.
Another to add into the mix, is Yankuba Minteh who is surpassing any expectations supporters had for him when he signed, albeit away from the St. James’ Park spotlight. The Gambian international said he’s yet to visit Newcastle, with his signing completed in the Netherlands before joining Feyenoord on a season-long loan.
The loan itself will help Minteh pass Work Permit regulations and boost his development as a young player. A slow start to life at the Dutch champions has seen a huge amount of progression in such a short space of time, resulting in his Champions League debut and senior international cap.
