Newcastle United has experienced a dramatic transformation since its ownership changed nearly three years ago. During this period, virtually every aspect of Eddie Howe’s squad has been revamped or reinforced, except for one glaring exception: the right side of the attack. As the new season kicks off, the same familiar faces—Miguel Almiron and Jacob Murphy—are once again vying for the coveted position on the right flank.
Almiron, who had a remarkable surge in form two seasons ago, played a crucial role in Newcastle’s successful bid to secure a Champions League spot. Murphy, meanwhile, has shown significant improvement in recent months, making it highly likely he will start in this weekend’s match against Southampton. The expectation was that this summer Newcastle would invest heavily in a high-profile goalscorer to complement Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon. However, with only two weeks remaining in the transfer window, it remains uncertain if this will materialize, largely hinging on Almiron’s future.
Almiron stands as one of the few truly marketable assets Newcastle possesses who could feasibly be sold. While players like Martin Dubravka and Harrison Ashby might fetch minor fees, and departures of Kieran Trippier or Callum Wilson could provide a modest boost, Almiron is the only senior player linked with a move who might bring in over £20 million—assuming Newcastle is fortunate.
Yet, this scenario is more complex than it appears. Compared to January, interest in Almiron this summer has been sparse. Howe has demonstrated no strong inclination to part with the winger. Almiron is a valued member of the team, well-regarded by his teammates, and trusted by Howe. This was evident in January when Almiron attracted interest from Saudi Arabia, and the situation remains unchanged this summer.
Howe expressed his admiration for Almiron in July, emphasizing his integral role in the team. “He has been unbelievable for Newcastle. Long before I came, but since I have been here, he has been an absolutely pivotal and key player,” Howe stated. “We love him, we love his personality, and we love working with him. And he’s come back with a big smile on his face. So I am looking forward to working with him again.”
Almiron himself is not rushing to leave. Despite the possibility that Murphy might edge him out of the starting XI for part of the season, Almiron is content on Tyneside with his young family. However, recent reports suggest interest from the MLS, specifically Charlotte FC, managed by Dean Smith, is eager to bring Almiron back to North America. Although Almiron has expressed openness to a future MLS move, securing such a transfer would be exceptionally challenging.
The current MLS transfer record stands at $16 million, with Charlotte FC’s highest transfer fee being $8 million from their signing of Celtic’s Liel Abada. This financial disparity makes a move for Almiron unlikely unless circumstances change dramatically. Furthermore, the MLS transfer window closes on August 14, leaving only a narrow window for such a transfer to occur. Post-deadline, Almiron’s potential destinations might shift to a move to Saudi Arabia or a less conventional Premier League transfer later in the month.
As each day passes, it seems increasingly probable that Almiron and Murphy will enter the new season together without a new right-sided addition to Newcastle’s squad before the September transfer deadline for British clubs. With Newcastle focusing on acquiring Marc Guehi for a hefty £60 million, the club’s leadership might be prioritizing financial prudence and compliance with profitability and sustainability regulations. Guehi’s addition would be a significant boost but a costly one unless Howe can offload several fringe players in the coming weeks.
Should Almiron leave, Howe will need a replacement before the end of the month. If interest in Almiron remains insufficient, it is unlikely Howe will splurge on another right-winger, potentially hampering the club’s future financial flexibility. Ultimately, Almiron’s decision to stay or go will be pivotal in shaping how Newcastle navigates the remainder of the summer transfer window.