Newcastle announce record breaking Almiron deal

Newcastle United have broken their transfer record to bring in Paraguayan midfielder Miguel Almirón from MLS champions Atlanta United.

Their previous record came in 2005 when purchasing Michael Owen for £16.5 million from Real Madrid.

The wait for Magpie fans may finally be over now as 24-year-old Almirón is reported to be on his way to Tyneside to complete his medical ahead of a move.

It looked as though the deal was off last week but a breakthrough is reported to have been made in the last 24 hours with Almirón now keen to sign for the North East side.

Since signing for Atlanta in 2016, the 24-year-old has gone on to be a huge hit at the Five Stripes, securing a place in the league’s Best XI in both 2017 and 2018.

The Paraguay international contributed to 13 goals and 11 assists last season as he helped Atlanta lift the MLS Cup and will be sure to add some much needed creativity to the Newcastle team.

The sale of Almirón was necessary for the MLS side as they currently hold four designated players after their purchase of Argentinian player Gonzalo “Pity” Martínez, with teams in the league only allowed three.

The fee is believed to be in the region of £25 million with Rafa Benítez hoping his new signing will light up St James’ Park and help Newcastle avoid a relegation dogfight.