Aimar close to Benfica transfer

Newcastle's hopes of signing Pablo Aimar appear to have been dashed with the Argentinian playmaker poised to complete a move from Real Zaragoza to Benfica after the clubs agreed a deal.

The 28-year-old announced his intention to leave the Spanish side soon after they were relegated, with Lisbon giants Benfica instantly showing their interest in the player.

The delay in the clubs reaching an agreement had reportedly attracted the attention of the Magpies and Everton, but now it seems the transfer to Portugal is all but completed.

Zaragoza communications director Luis Sol told Portuguese website www.maisfutebol.iol.pt: "He is about to sign a contract with Benfica.

"Between Zaragoza and Benfica everything is sorted out. The doors are open for Aimar to become Benfica player.

"At around 6.30pm Aimar was in Soria with his team-mates, but he received a phone call and travelled to Zaragoza.

"The only information we have is that between both clubs, everything is resolved. This is the reason he went to meet the Benfica board.

"He might travel to Lisbon (on Wednesday) with (Benfica sporting director) Rui Costa.

Reports in Portugal suggest Aimar will be offered a three-year contract, and the Lisbon-based club will pay Zaragoza around £6million.