OPINION
Newcastle United’s capture of Miguel Almiron has left the Toon Army drooling after his impressive first two months at St James’ Park – but there is no doubt one man who was not happy to see the attacking maestro move to Tyneside.
That would be Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez, the 25-year-old Venezuelan forming one of the most lethal partnerships in the MLS alongside his fellow South American last season.
With 35 goals and six assists it should come as no surprise to hear that as well as the MLS Cup Martinez also picked up the MVP award for the American top flight – continuing his fine form into the new season with four goals in seven appearances.
However, Almiron is not the only Newcastle player that Martinez has connections to – with 47 international caps for Venezuela he has also played plenty of times with Salomon Rondon too.
He replaced the Magpies’ striker on Friday in their 3-1 win over Argentina – Rondon already scoring before being substituted – and the Atlanta man followed in his teammates’ footsteps to also find the back of the net.
Having worked with both Almiron and Rondon, you can imagine the pair are in Rafael Benitez’s ear about how good a signing he would be for the club and quite frankly, if he could perform anywhere near as well as he has in the MLS, Newcastle fans would be in dreamland with his capture.
A summer reunion for the South American trio? The Toon Army can only wish right now – but what a statement signing he would be for Benitez.
