Social media fame goes big: Tim Payne set to sign with Olimpia Asunción

From virtually unknown to viral phenomenon in a matter of days: New Zealand right-back Tim Payne It became transfer news after the 2026 World Cup when it was reported that he was set to join Paraguay's Olimpia Asunción as soon as his international duties with the All-Nationals. Whites in tournament ended According to the media in Paraguay Negotiations are considered close and only an official announcement remains. The club also helped fuel the news with a mysterious post on social media that included a muscle arm emoji and a New Zealand flag. The 1994-born star played with Wellington Phoenix last season. And the move will give him the opportunity to play at South American level, including the Copa Sudamericana, with one of the continent's oldest clubs. After a 2-2 draw in the match against Iran Payne previously spoke to ESPN about moving to play in South America. He said he "is an option to consider" but stressed that for now he is focused on the World Cup and his dream of qualifying for the group stage. Payne's online fame came quickly. This was partly due to a campaign by Argentine influencer Valen Scarsini that was intended to popularize the tournament's least followed players. As a result, Payne's Instagram following jumped from around 4,700 to more than 5.8 million in a short period of time. It also helps to increase interest from various clubs. No official contract details or fee have been revealed yet. An official confirmation from the club is expected after the New Zealand national team's World Cup duties.