Transfer Talk: Newcastle targets Atlanta United’s Miguel Almiron in January swoop

Sebastian Salazar catches up with Josef Martinez and Miguel Almiron after the star duo powered Atlanta United to the Eastern Conference finals.

The two best teams in MLS during the regular season will meet for a spot in the MLS Cup Final. The FC crew break down the tie and make their picks.

Paul Mariner breaks down the MLS Best XI for the 2018 season and reveals which superstar in the XI he would build his team around.

With the winter window opening soon, the rumour mill is beginning to gather pace. Who will be moving where come January? Transfer Talk has the latest.

Rafa hopes to land MLS star

Rafa Benitez will turn to Major League Soccer in an attempt to land a player he believes could save Newcastle’s waning season.

Those are the claims of the Sun, who report that Benitez has identified Atlanta United playmaker Miguel Almiron as the man to deliver his side from relegation.

Almiron proved to be one of the breakout stars of the 2018 MLS season, scoring 12 goals and laying on 13 assists in the space of 32 appearances as Atlanta powered into the postseason.

Toon manager Benitez believes that Almiron has all the credentials to replicate that kind of form in the Premier League and is hoping that club owner Mike Ashley will supply the £15 million it will take to land the 24-year-old Paraguayan in January.

Miguel Almiron has been one of the stars of the 2018 Major League Soccer season.

Chelsea eye Cahill replacement

With it looking highly likely that Gary Cahill will bring his six-year stint with Chelsea to an end in January, the club have reportedly identified the long-serving defender’s direct replacement.

That man is Daniele Rugani of Juventus, who has been specifically selected by Blues boss Maurizio Sarri as the chosen successor to Cahill’s mantle at Stamford Bridge.

According to the Sun, Rugani could be available for around £25 million when the market reopens, but Chelsea might have to act quickly if they wish to beat Arsenal to the punch, as their cross-city rivals are also known to be coveting the 24-year-old.

Tap-ins

— Having reclaimed his place in the team, Alex Sandro will not be leaving Juventus in January, despite being heavily touted by Real Madrid, Barcelona and several eager Premier League suitors, so claim Calciomercato.

— Juventus are piecing together a January raid for Wolves star Ruben Neves, according to the Mail. The midfielder has caught the eye with a series of impressive performances and spectacular goals since arriving at Molineux in 2017.

— As reported by the Sun, Maurizio Sarri is convinced that France Under-21 international Houssem Aouar has the potential to develop into a world-class player who is perfectly suited for Chelsea’s system.