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Miguel Almiron insists he has the ability to adapt to the Premier League after moving to Newcastle United from Atlanta United, according to the BBC's live blog on Thursday (3:47pm).

The playmaker became the club's record signing in the January transfer window, as the Magpies paid £20million to secure his signature.

What's the word?

Almiron could make his debut for Newcastle on Monday when the club take on Wolves at Molineux.

The 24-year-old made 70 appearances for Atlanta United in the MLS, scoring 22 goals and laying on 21 assists, and has also won 13 caps for Paraguay.

His move to Newcastle marks his first foray into Europe, having previously played for Cerro Porteno, in his homeland, Lanus in Argentina as well as Atlanta in the United States.

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And he is confident that he can make a significant impact in the English top-flight.

Almiron said, per BBC (15:47): “I think for some time now the MLS has been improving.

"Every year you see more and more quality players come in. I think it’s a good sign and a positive thing for that league.

"There are big differences between the two leagues... and [the Premier League] is a tougher league to play in. But I think with the help of my team-mates in training and the manager, it’s something I think I’ll cope with, and they’ll help me along the way."

Wake-up call

Almiron is in for something of a rude awakening.

He has acknowledged that the Premier League is a "tougher league" and he could not be more accurate.

Almiron is a slight playmaker and does not appear to have the physicality required to make an instant impact at St James' Park.

He will need time, and patience from the club's vociferous support, if he is to deliver on his potential.

Of course, he has that in spades, but he cannot expect to simply jump in at the deep end and start swimming.