Newcastle United hidden transfer clause revealed - £21m deal negotiated by Darren Eales

Newcastle United could owe Atlanta United a sizeable sum of money should they offload Miguel Almiron to the Saudi Pro League this month.

The Paraguayan is attracting serious interest from the Middle East with Al Shabab said to be leading the chase, while it is NewcastleWorld's understanding that Al Ahli, who are one of four SPL clubs owned by the Magpies' majority owners the Public Investment Fund, are also keeping an eye on the situation.

Eddie Howe is keen to strengthen his squad before the January transfer window slams shut but financial constraints, i.e Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules, have meant the Magpies have been unable to move for anyone so far. However, the sale of a senior player would likely unlock the ability to delve into the market before the deadline on February 1.

Kieran Trippier, Callum Wilson and Almiron have all been the subject of transfer speculation in recent days. With Trippier and Wilson over the age of 30 and out of contract in 18 months, Newcastle can arguably command a higher fee for Almiron, who signed an extended deal until 2026 last year.

But if Newcastle are to sell Almiron then Atlanta would stand to benefit significantly. As per The Athletic's Tom Bogert, the MLS side negotiated a 20-25% sell-on clause when the 29-year-old moved to St James' Park in a deal worth £21million five years ago. Interestingly, United CEO Darren Eales was president of The Five Stripes.

Reflecting on the deal, Eales said: “I mean it’s funny because Miggy was one of the first signings when I was at Atlanta, and it was his dream to come to the Premier League, so it was one of those strange ones where when you did the transfer, probably more than any other one.

“I was really pleased for Miggy as well. What I would say, I saw what Miggy was capable of at Atlanta, and no one could doubt his passion, commitment and personality. He’s a great guy to have around.

Since arriving on Tyneside, Almiron has made 195 appearances and scored 30 goals, over half of which (16) have come since the beginning of last season.