Atlanta United's Miguel Almiron described reported interest from Arsenal and Inter Milan as "rumors" on Monday.
“I think it’s an honor that big European clubs have noticed me, but as far as I know they are all rumors,” he said. “There’s nothing concrete. I’m just focused on Atlanta and trying to improve every day.”
Atlanta United will host Columbus on Thursday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in the first round of the MLS playoffs.
Almiron, an attacking midfielder with nine goals and 13 assists this season, is a big reason why the Five Stripes became the first expansion team since Seattle in 2009 to qualify for the postseason.
Almiron was signed as a Designated Player by Atlanta United from Lanus in Argentina’s first division for a reported fee of between $8-9 million.
The 23-year-old Paraguayan was one of three Atlanta United players to participate in the MLS All-Star game in August in Chicago and, before sustaining a hamstring injury in a win against Montreal on Sept. 24, was among the contenders to be named MLS MVP.
Almiron returned from his injury to play the final 29 minutes of Sunday's 2-2 draw with Toronto. Manager Gerardo Martino said the plan was to play Almiron in the second half regardless of the score.
“I felt good, it felt good to be back,” Almiron said in his first interview since sustaining that injury.
Almiron said it was tough in the first few days not being to play, but then he began focusing on recovering and getting back to playing as soon as he could.
Arsenal and Inter Milan are two of the more storied clubs in Europe. The Gunners, based in north London, have won 13 league championships and 13 FA Cups. Inter Milan has won 30 domestic trophies.
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