RAFA BENITEZ reckons Miguel Almiron can shake up Newcastle’s season.

The Toon boss is pushing hard for the Atlanta United playmaker after his stunning displays in MLS.

5 Newcastle want to sign Atlanta United star Miguel Almiron Credit: Getty

It is understood Almiron, 24, is high on his wishlist for January.

But that depends on owner Mike Ashley giving him cash to bolster his squad.

The Paraguay international could cost £15million, with West Ham and Everton also looking at him.

He is expected to leave in the January window and Benitez is among the managers who reckon he can adapt immediately after two seasons in America.

5 The Paraguay international is rated at £15m by the MLS side Credit: Getty

5 Rafa Benitez believes the attacker could hit the ground running on Tyneside Credit: Getty Images

Benitez will get an idea of Ashley's transfer ambitions with their targets when the window opens.

In Almiron, he believes the MLS star can make a difference to his team and is young enough to have good resale value.

He came through the ranks in his homeland with Cerro Porteno before Argentine side Lanus bought him in 2015.

Almiron’s impressive displays caught the eye of Atlanta 12 months later and they forked out around £7m to bring him to the States.

The 5ft 10in attacker has repaid the faith shown in him by bagging 21 goals in 62 MLS appearances.

And he is believed to be open to further his development with a switch to England.

Newcastle appear to have turned a corner in recent weeks after a dire start to the campaign.

5 Newcastle will be hoping owner Mike Ashley provides them with cash for some January additions Credit: Getty Images

5 Almiron has became a huge favourite after his two impressive campaigns in the MLS Credit: USA TODAY Sports

The Toon have recorded back-to-back victories over Bournemouth and Watford after a winless opening to the season.

Benitez and his men will be looking to continue that run on Monday.

They travel across the Pennines to Turf Moor to battle fellow strugglers Burnley.

Newcastle are currently in 14th in the table, a point above the drop zone.