Eddie Howe’s stance on Fabian Schar contract revealed as clubs plot Newcastle swoop
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is keen for centre-back Fabian Schar to land a new contract before the end of the season, sources have told Football Insider.
The 34-year-old could leave St James’ Park as a free agent this summer, and it is understood that several clubs are already eyeing up the chance to table an offer to him if he does depart.
The Swiss international is currently sidelined with an ankle injury, but sources have indicated that Howe still views him as a key part of his squad on Tyneside.
Schar and the club are yet to agree a new deal, and it remains to be seen whether the veteran would want more than a one or two-year deal.
Newcastle’s transfer plans are already being formed for next season, and it has now become clear that Howe does not want to see Schar sign elsewhere.
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VISIT THE NEWCASTLE TRANSFER HUBEddie Howe’s role for Fabian Schar is clear
Schar has made over 250 appearances for Newcastle since his arrival from Deportivo La Coruna in the summer of 2028, and he continues to be an important member of the squad.
The defender has surpassed 40 games in all competitions in each of the last three seasons, and Howe has relied on him to be a staple of his defence since he took the reins at St James’.
Injuries have affected his involvement somewhat this term, but the veteran has still been fit enough to feature in 16 Premier League games, up until the injury that he sustained on 7 January.
Newcastle are not blessed with a wealth of options at the centre of their backline, and Howe has been forced to constantly rotate between the trio of Malick Thiaw, Sven Botman and Dan Burn.
Schar’s inability to be involved in matchday squads at the moment has limited his involvement around the squad of late, but he remains a key figure within the group.
He is one of several Magpies stars who could be set to walk away on a free transfer ahead of next season, but Howe is determined to ensure that doesn’t happen.
Newcastle fighting to keep Malick Thiaw
Former Everton chief executive Keith Wyness recently told Football Insider that Newcastle are “doing everything they can” to keep hold of Thiaw this summer, amid growing interest in him from elsewhere.
The Scottish businessman suggested that both Chelsea and Juventus are keen on the German, and could potentially make a move, while he also has plenty of admirers in the Bundesliga at the moment.
The 24-year-old only moved to the North East from AC Milan last summer, but another move could soon be on the cards if Newcastle are not prudent with their work in the market.
Thiaw has started in 25 of the Magpies’ 29 Premier League games so far this term, and they are determined to try and fend off the interest that is developing in one of their key defenders.
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