Newcastle United social media hint as 'fee agreed' for 30-goal winger hours before Southampton

Newcastle have reportedly agreed a fee with Atlanta United for Almiron to return to the MLS club, six years after leaving to move to St James’ Park for a then club-record £21million.

As reported by The Telegraph late on Friday night, confirmation of the deal is being held up due to personal terms, though an agreement is expected. NewcastleWorld revealed earlier this week that a deal was moving slowly.

The Paraguayan is understood to have travelled with his Newcastle teammates to Southampton on Friday afternoon. The latest news may have created doubt over his involvement at St Mary’s, but the winger has suggested he’ll be named in the matchday squad.

Via his official Instagram account, Almiron has uploaded a matchday graphic previewing this afternoon’s game. If involved, it is likely the 29-year-old will be named on the bench.

Addressing Almiron’s future at his pre-match press conference, Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe said: “I think Miggy's head has been very, very solidly here.

“He's been brilliant in training this week. I've seen not one moment where I thought, ‘Oh, I need to address this or speak to him or have a deeper conversation’.

“I think we're both aware of the situation. Yes, there is interest in him from other clubs. There is, potentially, a chance he could leave before the window, but until that moment and if that moment never arrives, he's still a valuable member of the squad.

“We love him to bits. He's got a great energy and character that's never changed for a second. He's been the ultimate professional and let's see what happens.”

Almiron has made 222 appearances and scored 30 goals for Newcastle since joining in January 2019, though has started just two Premier League games since March. His last goal for the club came in a 3-0 win over Fulham in December 2023.