Steve Bruce wants to keep Federico Fernandez at Newcastle United but he may be fighting a losing battle to convince Mike Ashley to hand the defender a new contract, as reported by the Northern Echo.
If you’re looking for an experienced, battle-hardened centre-half willing to throw his body on the line to prevent a goal, look no further.
Fernandez remains as solid as a stone-carved statue of Eddie Hall and, even at the age of 32, the Argentina international has plenty left in the locker.
Steve Bruce knows that too.
According to The Echo, Newcastle’s much-maligned manager would jump at the chance to retain the services of Fernandez, who has started each of the past four Premier League games.
However, with no extension clause in the former Swansea City and Napoli defender’s contract, there’s a chance Bruce may not get his wish.
It’s no secret Newcastle owner Mike Ashley isn’t keen on handing deals to players over 30. That may explain why Mo Diame and Ki Sung-yueng were both allowed to leave on free transfers in summer 2019.
Fernandez, meanwhile, will be 33 this time next year. The Echo adds he’s a target for two, as yet undisclosed, clubs in Europe.
Fellow defenders Fabian Schar and Paul Dummett also face uncertain futures with their contracts expiring in 2022. Worryingly, the Swiss and Welshman will both be in their 30s too by then.
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