As the transfer deadline approaches, Newcastle United has confirmed that Miguel Almiron will not be departing St James’ Park.
Throughout January, there were strong rumors linking the 29-year-old with a move away from Newcastle, including discussions with clubs in Saudi Arabia. Al-Shabab showed interest, with reports suggesting they had reached a verbal agreement with Newcastle to acquire Almiron.
However, the potential transfer depended on Almiron’s willingness to relocate to Saudi Arabia, which he did not express. The Paraguayan international made it clear to Newcastle United that he intended to stay on Tyneside, and that is indeed what will occur.
Although Newcastle’s transfer window remains open, the deadline has passed in Saudi Arabia, eliminating any possibility of a reversal regarding Almiron’s move to the Middle East.
Journalist Ben Jacobs, who initially reported Al-Shabab’s interest in Almiron, has since discussed with Give Me Sport why the deal fell through. He also disclosed details regarding the financial terms of the proposed transfer to the Saudi club.
Why Miguel Almiron did not leave Newcastle
“They agreed a verbal package with Newcastle for around €30million (£25.6million),” he said.
“They did that through club-to-club negotiations before approaching Almiron.
“When they approached the Almiron side, it was clear that he preferred to stay at Newcastle and certainly not to move to Saudi Arabia and Al-Shabab. As a result, the deal never got off the ground.”
According to Jacobs, Almiron’s stance is the reason why Al-Shabab did not submit a formal bid, despite their verbal agreement.
Selling Almiron would have been a risk
If Newcastle had sold Almiron, they would have had some money to spend and invest. It may have resulted in a spectacular deadline day.
Instead, it appears that it will be rather quiet, but Eddie Howe will be delighted that Almiron is staying. He was adamant about keeping him, and selling him would have been risky.
Yes, we would have had money to spend. However, there would have been no guarantee of anyone coming in. Morgan Gibbs-White was considered as a replacement, but the deal would have been extremely difficult to complete.
We could have ended up selling Almiron and being unable to replace him, which would have been disastrous.
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