Newcastle United forward set to depart after ‘losing momentum’ with the Magpies

Santiago Munoz is reportedly set to return to Mexico when his 18-month loan deal at Newcastle United comes to a close in December.

The forward joined the Magpies on loan last year but has failed to break through into the first-team ranks during his time at St James Park.

The 20-year-old made his Under-23s in a 4-3 defeat against Norwich City last February and has gone on to score one goal in nine appearances for Elliott Dickman’s side.

A first senior run-out came in pre-season when Munoz came off the bench to replace Callum Wilson in the closing stages of a 2-1 with over Atletico Bilbao.

Speaking after the game, the Mexico Under-23 international spoke of his pride at appearing at St James Park and spoke of his ambition to force his way into Eddie Howe’s first team squad.

He told the club website: Munoz told the club’s website: “It was very good experience to travel with the first-team to Portugal. I got to know some of the players and I took a lot of positives from it. I learnt a lot, how they train and play and it gives me an idea of how to continue moving forward.

“I also got to make my first-team debut for Newcastle, playing at St. James’ Park. It was something very special. It was an incredible atmosphere, playing in front of so many fans, and it gives me inspiration to keep working and to do my thing.

“Those experiences make me want it more. I want to be playing at that level regularly and it’s in me to keep working. At the minute, I am confident and happy with the team, club and city.

“I have been working hard, watching a lot of videos and carrying out meetings with coaches and staff. I think I am improving and I aim to continue doing that.”

However, one report in Mexico has suggest Munoz will not get a chance to make a competitive debut at senior level and will return to his parent club before Christmas.

Mexican outlet Record have reported the Magpies ‘will neither buy nor seek to renew his loan’ when the original agreement expires in December.

The report suggested Munoz has ‘lost momentum’ at Newcastle and parent club Santos Laguna are already expecting the forward to return to the club for the new year, but believe he has ‘lost eight months’ of development’ during his time on Tyneside.