Newcastle United are finally on course to sell Miguel Almiron to Atlanta United, but a transfer has not been guaranteed.
The 30-year-old made what appeared to be a farewell appearance on Saturday. Miguel Almiron came off the bench as Newcastle United beat Southampton 3-1 at St Mary’s.
After the game, Newcastle fans serenaded Almiron, as they paid tribute to a player who has given his all whilst wearing black and white.
It has since been claimed that Newcastle and Atlanta United have agreed a deal for Almiron, with the Paraguayan on course to return to the MLS side.
What almost prevented Miguel Almiron leaving Newcastle United
However, there have actually been doubts about Almiron leaving St James’ Park over the weekend.
That is according to TBR Football’s chief correspondent Graeme Bailey, who has exclusively told Geordie Boot Boys that Almiron has not been pushing to leave Newcastle United.
However, it is now understood that a long-term contract is being offered to Almiron, which has helped sway him towards making the move.
“My information has been that Almiron has not necessarily been convinced about leaving,” Bailey said.
“He is not desperate to leave Newcastle United. Eddie Howe is not pushing him out the door.
“Part of the delay has been convincing him to go back to Atlanta United.”
Right time for Newcastle United and Miguel Almiron to part ways
Bailey has told Geordie Boot Boys that Newcastle United and Atlanta United now believe that a deal will be completed, as Almiron gets set to end his six year spell on Tyneside.
He was brought to the club by Rafa Benitez, arriving for a then club record fee of £21million from Atlanta United.
Six years later and he is returning to Atlanta United, at a time when the Magpies are right to let the Paraguay international go.
Almiron has not played a lot of football for Newcastle United this season, starting just once in the Premier League. Eddie Howe has rarely turned to him, despite Almiron previously being a key player under the current Newcastle United manager.
With the club needing to sell to boost their PSR position, it is vital that Newcastle United take this opportunity. While it has taken a bit of convincing, it is positive that Almiron is now set to finally leave the North East.
It is understandable why he would want to stay at Newcastle. But this is a good move for Almiron, who is going to get a long-term contract at a club where he was once idolised.
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