REAL MADRID are keeping tabs on Newcastle midfielder Miguel Almiron, according to reports.

Almiron, 25, became the Toon's record signing when he joined from MLS side Atlanta in January for £21million.

2 Miguel Almiron has caught the eye of Real Madrid since signing for Newcastle in January Credit: Getty Images - Getty

But just six months on and the world's most famous club are now said to be circling for the Paraguayan.

According to TycSports, Almiron has impressed Real Madrid chiefs who are monitoring his progress.

The attacking midfielder is yet to score for Rafa Benitez's side but made an immediate impact at St James' Park.

There is plenty of uncertainty in the north east this summer with Newcastle's ownership and Benitez's future unclear.

SPANISH INQUISITION

Unless Toon chiefs make a renewed attempt to keep Benitez, he will leave the managerial post next Sunday.

The Spaniard is refusing to sign the contract offered to him, which is understood to be a one-year extension on the same £6m-a-year salary.

He met owner Mike Ashley in London after the season finished to discuss extending his stay.

But he has had none of the reassurances he wanted over the structure of the club and plans for recruitment.

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Ashley has also been in ongoing talks with Dubai-based billionaire Sheikh Khaled bin Zayed Al Nehayan over selling the club for £350m.

Newcastle had been subject to previous interest and unsuccessful takeover attempts by the likes of Amanda Staveley and Peter Kenyon.

But Ashley has now decided to end his 12 years in control on Tyneside, to the delight of dismayed supporters.