Almiron arrival offers Newcastle almighty upgrade on underperforming Perez

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Newcastle have finally broken their transfer record to sign Atlanta United playmaker Miguel Almiron, as reported by Sky Sports.

The deadline day swoop for the midfield maestro signals a real statement of intent by the Magpies to escape relegation peril, usurping the reported £16.5m they paid for Michael Owen in 2005.

Rafa Benitez has been doing wonders with a workmanlike side, beating Manchester City in midweek to continue a trend of overperformance against the top sides throughout his reign.

But he really does need a sprinkling of creativity to elevate his side beyond the largely Championship-standard squad he used to get promoted and Almiron can be that man.

Part of the reason Benitez has struggled to find a regular source of creativity is the underperformance of Ayoze Perez in the number ten role.

The Spaniard works hard but can drift out of games at times, and is not robust, reliable or creative enough to carry the creative burden at St James’ Park.

But Almiron, with the investment he represents, will expect to come into the side in that playmaker role, potentially forcing Perez into a role as impact sub or out wide; but the new-boy will expect to be the main man.