BBC Sport has recently reported that Newcastle United are on the verge of sealing a move for Atlanta United winger Miguel Almiron before the transfer window closes tomorrow. The same report has also revealed that the Major League Soccer prospect will now travel to Tyneside to undergo his medical and finalise personal terms with the Magpies who have agreed on a deal which would smash their previous transfer record of £16m that was paid to Real Madrid for Michael Owen back in 2005.
Rafael Benitez’s men managed to earn a hard-fought 2-1 victory over the reigning Premier League champions, Manchester City on Tuesday night. In the post-match press conference, the Newcastle boss shared his thoughts on the development and said, “Hopefully we can finish everything on Wednesday,”
“I knew before the game we were doing some business, so hopefully we have some good news,”
“We are working on some things. If we have good news tomorrow it’s positive.
“It’s not about a record signing, you have to do the right things to stay up.”
It seems like the transfer is nearing its completion and could be announced at any time before Thursday’s deadline. Almiron’s arrival will undoubtedly be a big boost for Newcastle’s hopes of staying up and avoiding relegation from the English top-flight this season.
The Paraguay international had made 38 appearances for Atlanta United last season, scoring 13 goals while providing 13 assists in all competitions. The 24-year-old has enjoyed a productive spell at the MLS club, and his excellent contributions on the pitch helped his side claim a strong 4th place finish in the Eastern Conference.
The addition of a consistent goal-scorer and an assist maker like Almiron would undoubtedly bolster Benitez’s attacking options at St. James’ Park. The Magpies currently have some talented playmakers such as Matt Ritchie, Jonjo Shelvey, Christian Atsu and Ki Sung-yueng in their ranks. However, the Paraguayan international would be an upgrade over any of them and his productivity up top could help Newcastle avoid the drop this term.
It’s about time that Benitez got a chance to spend some money in the transfer market and Almiron’s high profile acquisition may just be the boost he needs to make a late charge for a top half finish in the Premier League. Oh! How times are finally changing for the better at Newcastle United!
