Imminent Newcastle United transfer expected, with crucial talks set for the next 48 hours.
EDDIE HOWE emphasizes that Miguel Almiron was "not necessarily saying goodbye" to Newcastle fans at Southampton, but the Paraguayan is set to finalize his return to Atlanta United in the coming days.
Miguel Almiron played a key role in Newcastle’s 3-1 victory at St Mary’s, coming on as a late substitute as the team secured a much-needed win.
After the match, Almiron was brought to the front of his teammates as they basked in the praise of the travelling supporters, resulting in some emotional scenes.
Newcastle and Atlanta have been in discussions throughout January, and by the end of last week, they reached an agreement over a deal for Almiron.
Although the 30-year-old has yet to finalize personal terms for his potential return to the MLS, further negotiations are set to take place within the next 48 hours, and the transfer is expected to be finalized soon.
While the US transfer window is open until April, Atlanta are keen to finalize their squad before pre-season training begins, with Almiron’s return after six years at Newcastle being central to their plans.
Eddie Howe acknowledged at the end of last week that Almiron “could leave.”
Though Howe suggested that the emotional scenes at St Mary’s did not necessarily mark a final farewell, he has accepted that Almiron will likely not be available for the remainder of the season, beginning with next weekend’s home match against Fulham.
When asked about the post-match moments at Southampton, Howe explained, “Was it goodbye? Not really. It wasn’t planned. The crowd were just showing him a lot of love.
Miggy isn’t the type of player to seek attention, but it was important to bring him to the front so everyone could recognize the incredible attitude, commitment, and performances he’s given us.
I’m not saying it’s a goodbye, we don’t know what will happen, but it was a special moment for him.”
Newcastle are not expected to replace Almiron this month, as they aim to preserve their spending power for the summer transfer window.
His departure will leave a gap in the right-sided attacking role, with Jacob Murphy being the only natural option for that position.
However, Anthony Gordon has been shifted to the right flank earlier this season, and Joelinton could also step in if needed.
Almiron is a well-liked figure in the Newcastle dressing room, with midfielder Sandro Tonali offering a tribute to his teammate after Saturday’s victory. “I’m happy for Miggy,” said Tonali.
“He’s an amazing person, an amazing player, and we love him. We’re a great team, and we work for each other, which is fantastic because that’s hard to find in a team.”
