Newcastle United approve January transfer as forward bids emotional farewell - set to happen this week

There is an £11million agreement in place that will see the Paraguayan return to his former club, six years after leaving to join Newcastle in a then club-record £21m deal.

NewcastleWorld understands a transfer is not yet finalised, with personal terms still being discussed. There has also been an additional layer of procedure required at Atlanta’s end for a ‘Designated Player’ transfer.

But a deal is expected to be completed by the end of the week. As reported by Sky Sports News’ Pete Graves, Almiron has already bid an emotional farewell to his Newcastle teammates and coaches.

The 29-year-old made his 223rd appearance for United as a late substitute in the 3-1 win at Southampton on Saturday and was given a rapturous reception by the travelling Geordies.

Miguel Almiron’s goodbye gesture

After the full-time whistle, Almiron was pushed in front of the away by head coach Eddie Howe. The winger responded by putting his right hand on his chest before raising his left arm to wave.

Asked if that was a farewell gesture, Howe said: “Not really. I think it was just that it wasn't planned.

“It was just the crowd were very much embracing him and giving him a lot of love. And I just felt it was... You know, Miggy's not that kind of character that's got a huge ego that absorbs all the attention. But I just felt it was imperative that we got him to the front.

“And everyone acknowledged he's been unbelievable for us. His attitude, his commitment, the way he's played. I'm not saying it's a goodbye. We don't know what's going to happen. But I just thought it was a great moment for him.”

If progress in the last 24 hours is anything to go by then Saturday was Almiron’s farewell to the fans.