Miguel Almiron could have joined Arsenal in the January transfer window but rejected a move as the Gunners could not sign him permanently, the player’s agent has revealed.
The Paraguayan playmaker sealed a club record £20million move to Newcastle from MLS side Atalanta and has made a promising start for the Magpies.
Almiron netted 13 times in the United States’ top league to help steer Atlanta to MLS Cup success, but he’s yet to find the back of the net in his three appearances for the black and white outfit.
His agent Daniel Campos has now revealed the 25-year-old could have joined Arsenal last month but rejected the opportunity as the north Londoners could only offer a loan deal.
Campos also claimed Arsenal’s fellow Premier League sides Manchester United and Southampton showed interest in Almiron.
He told Paraguayan radio, as quoted by ABC: “Miguel Almiron is a footballer who went from less to more, now he is a more complete footballer.
“There was interest shown by Manchester United in Miguel Almiron but they never made an offer.
“Arsenal and Southampton offered loan deals for Miguel Almiron but we did not want it to be a loan.”
Gunners boss Unai Emery made no secret that his board would only allow loan signings in January and instead opted to bring in Denis Suarez from Barcelona for the rest of the season.
And Suarez is interested in making his move to Arsenal a permanent one.
“My aim is to be a success here, perform well and feel important,” the Spain midfielder said.
“I’d like to become an important player at the club.
“I joined Arsenal to get a lot of playing time, to be an important player and feel important
“I’m determined to perform well and be a success at this great club.”