Newcastle told to improve transfer bid for Almiron with Atlanta wanting £30million
The Paraguayan star bagged himself 13 goals and 16 assists as he helped his side lift the MLS Cup in December
NEWCASTLE have been told to up their offer for Atlanta United star Miguel Almiron.
Rafa Benitez has made the Paraguay international his top January target.
But Toon chiefs are nowhere near matching Atlanta's £30million valuation - and have also been put off by Almiron's £100,000 wage demands.
The forward’s agent Daniel Campos said: “There are two to three clubs in England that have interest in him, but we haven’t advanced a lot yet.
“If Newcastle raise their offers, they could be one of the clubs.
“With Newcastle, I spoke about the player’s salary, but the club needs to raise their offers with Atlanta if they want to get the player.”
Almiron, 24, was one of the key members of the Atlanta squad that won their first MLS Cup last year, beating the Portland Timbers 2-0 in December's final.
He racked up an impressive 13 goals and 16 assists across the regular season and play-offs and linked up with Venezuelan striker Josef Martinez in attack.
But the Paraguayan attacking midfielder is almost certain to leave Atlanta this year with St James' Park expected to be his next stop.
Benitez will be desperate to bring in some much-needed creativity to the Toon squad that has managed just 15 goals in the Premier League this season.