Yes, Miguel Almiron still loves playing for Atlanta United and living in the city.
Yes, he still hopes to one day play in Europe.
Because the transfer window for leagues in England opens on Thursday and the MLS transfer window opens on July 10, Almiron was asked Wednesday if there was anything new regarding long-standing rumors of interest in him from clubs in Europe.
He said no.
“I’m just trying to enjoy my time in Atlanta to the fullest,” he said. “As I’ve said before, my goal is still to get to Europe.”
Almiron, from Paraguay, has been rumored to be a transfer target for teams in Europe since the middle of last season when his combination of passing, speed and shooting helped eventually lead Atlanta United to the playoffs. He finished the season with nine goals and 14 assists in 30 appearances. He was one of few players who held their own against Real Madrid in the All-Star Game in Chicago.
Almiron laughed off rumors of interest from Arsenal, Newcastle Inter Milan and A.C. Milan after the season.
The rumors persisted into this season. Club President Darren Eales said on April 28 that the team had received no official offers for Almiron.
Almiron is having an MLS MVP season with the Five Stripes. He has six goals and five assists. The team leads MLS in points (25) and goals scored (25). It will host New York Red Bulls on Sunday.
It would be stunning if the team were to sell Almiron, particularly when it is favorite to win the MLS Cup and Supporters' Shield this season. It is also in the running for a spot in the CONCACAF Champions League.
