The Telegraph report that Newcastle United are set to hand Fabian Schar a new contract – with his current deal expiring at the end of the season. Premier League clubs are said to be showing interest in the Swiss defender.
Schar, 30, will leave the club on a free transfer at the end of the season as things stand. That is, despite being a crucial part of Eddie Howe’s side since the ex-Bournemouth gaffer arrived on Tyneside to replace Steve Bruce.
Of the 13 Premier League games Howe has managed, Schar has started 12. He has been pivotal in helping Newcastle concede just four goals in their last six games, in which Newcastle have picked up 12 important points.
The ex-Deportivo defender was picked alongside Dan Burn last time out – with captain Jamaal Lascelles left on the bench. One of the ‘most-improved’ under Howe, Schar is set to sign a new deal, amid Premier League interest.
Schar to get Newcastle deal: Swiss star deserves it, but what length?
Schar will turn 31 in December. So, while he clearly does deserve a new deal as he continues to shine at Newcastle – how long should he be given? Newcastle will obviously bring in central defenders in the summer.
With Lascelles, Burn and Schar, they have a good base of three central defenders that look set to be at the club next season. Federico Fernandez and Ciaran Clark might be sold to make way for a couple of arrivals.
But if anything more than a two-year deal is given to Schar, then Newcastle are going to be left with a player they might be unable to shift when he turns 33 or 34. A contract until 2024 should be tabled, at the very most.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
