MIguel Almiron reveals what he has discussed with Rafa Benitez since joining Newcastle United

Almiron, signed on transfer deadline day last week from Atlanta United in a deal which could cost the club up to £21million, hopes to make his debut against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday.

The midfielder signed a five-and-a-half year deal at St James's Park.

However, Benitez's contract runs out in the summer – and, up to Almiron's arrival, it was expected that the 58-year-old would leave the club at the end of the season.

Owner Mike Ashley hopes the investment in Almiron will persuade Benitez that he has a future at the club.

Almiron, unveiled at St James's Park yesterday, has had a number of discussions with United's manager, but the 24-year-old has insisted that his future was not on the agenda.

"It's not a topic we've discussed," said the Paraguay international. "The only things I've spoken to him about is me feeling comfortable and settling in quickly, so I can bring something to the side."

Almiron said joining Newcastle was a "no-brainer", just had it had been when then-Atlanta manager Gerardo Martino wanted to give him a chance in Major League Soccer.

"I think it's a similar situation to when I made the decision to go to Atlanta," said Almiron.

"It was a no-brainer when Tata Martino said he wanted me. It was the same when I heard of the interest from Rafa Benitez. We all know what a great manager he is, a great person he is, and there was no hesitation about wanting to play for him and the club."