Miguel Almiron's agent Daniel Campos has revealed the key factor in the Paraguay international's exit at Newcastle United. The winger is on the verge of sealing a move back to the MLS.

It's almost six weeks now since Newcastle gave Almiron the green light to leave St James' Park but the deal to rejoin Atlanta United is expected to be pushed through in due course. The forward, who will be 31 next month, has been linked with clubs like River Plate and Charlotte FC but has now had assurances from his old club that he will get the deal and wage packet he is looking for - hence the delay in his exit.

Almiron's exit has now been accepted behind the scenes after Eddie Howe initially stated his preference to hold on to the player. It's understood that there were emotional scenes as Almiron said goodbye to his team-mates at Benton with the South American in tears as he prepared to return to Major League Soccer.

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On Saturday, Almiron was walked off the pitch by Kieran Trippier after being pushed to the front of the fans at St Mary's in what proved to be his farewell appearance. Confirming Almiron's exit for the first time on the record, Campos said: "It’s a big step because he had some very good moments there. It’s a very organised club, people idolise him, he got a long-term contract, which is what he was looking for.

"He’s going to be the one in charge of this team, they are putting together a competitive team."

Speaking about pushing Almiron to the 3,000 away fans at the weekend, Howe said: "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."

Howe was reluctant to part company with a key squad player this month, with Newcastle still fighting for Champions League qualification and in the semi-final of the Carabao Cup. PSR requirements have forced through the sale, with a number of key benefits to the deal.

Almiron had slipped down the pecking order at Newcastle recently after Jacob Murphy's outstanding form, but offered cover and support and has chipped in with key goals and assists during his six years at the club.

With Harvey Barnes on the treatment table and Callum Wilson not returned to fitness, Newcastle remain a little light on attacking options ahead of a tough run of fixtures.

Newcastle transfer chief Paul Mitchell is unlikely to sanction any replacement for Almiron this month. Newcastle prefer to keep their powder dry for the summer when they will have a heftier budget without PSR restrictions.