Fabian Schar is set to turn down Lille and Borussia Monchengladbach in favour of a new long-term contract at Premier League outfit Newcastle United, as reported by TEAMtalk.
Given that Eddie Howe has honed a reputation as one of the most forward-thinking tacticians in European football, it was no real surprise to see Schar – the finest ball-playing centre-half in Newcastle’s squad – handed an immediate to the starting XI when the former Bournemouth boss replaced Steve Bruce back in November.
The Switzerland international did not feature in any of Bruce’s final seven matches at the helm. But he’s barely missed a game since then, establishing himself as one of the first names on Howe’s team sheet.
And Schar is more than deserving of the ‘long-term deal’ he’s about to sign at St James’ Park. Forming an excellent partnership with January recruit Dan Burn, the 30-year-old’s expert positioning and superb passing range has been a major factor in Newcastle’s rapid rise up the Premier League table.
Friday’s 1-0 triumph over Wolves mean there is a ten point gap between the Magpies and the relegation zone with just a few weeks of the season remaining.
Is Fabian Schar staying at Newcastle United?
“Fabian is someone I have always really admired from afar for a number of years,” Howe says of a commanding yet cultured centre-half, one perfectly suited to the manager’s proactive, possession-based style.
“He’s a fantastic footballer and fits my mould in what I want in a centre-back. He can handle the ball, very composed and creative. But he also can defend.
“I’ve really enjoyed working with him. He’s a good character, takes his football very seriously and wants to improve.”
According to TEAMtalk, Borussia Monchengladbach, Galatasaray and reigning Ligue 1 champions Lille have made contact with Schar’s agent.
The former Basel and Deportivo la Coruna man is reportedly a target for Serie A challengers AC Milan too.
But it seems only a matter of time before Schar puts pen to paper on new contract. Thus, extending his stay at a club he joined four years ago.
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