MIGUEL Almiron's agent says there are two reasons why the winger has decided to leave Newcastle for Atlanta United.

Almiron's switch to the MLS is expected to be confirmed in the coming days, with the 30-year-old rejoining the club he left to sign for the Magpies six years ago.

River Plate and Charlotte FC were among the clubs to have also been linked with a move for Almiron this month, while Newcastle boss Eddie Howe would have happy to keep the winger on Tyneside.

But a long-term contract at Atlanta and the opportunity to be a star in what his agent, Daniel Campos, believes will be a "competitive team" in the MLS has tempted Almiron state-side.

He said his goodbyes to his Newcastle United teammates this week and is set to sign a four-year contract.

“It’s a big step because he had some very good moments there," Campos said in an interview with Tigo Sports in Paraguay.

"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.”

After what will turn out to have been Almiron's last appearance for Newcastle in the weekend win at Southampton, the winger was pushed to the front by his teammates to say goodbye to fans.

Howe said: “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 with his attitude, his commitment, the way he’s played."

Meanwhile, Hartlepool boss Lennie Lawrence has confirmed the National League club are on the verge of signing Newcastle's Jamie Miley, with the 21-year-old expected to be involved in Saturday's away game at Braintree.

Miley was recalled from his loan spell at Newport earlier this month and is now set to leave on a permanent deal.

Lawrence said: "The deal should be complete in time for the weekend. The likelihood is that he'll be on the bench.

"He's a good technical player with lots of skill and vision. He's got to adapt to the physicality of the league but he's certainly got the talent."