Sources: Newcastle United put defender signing on hold after internal discussions

Newcastle United are delaying signing a new centre-back as they weigh up Dan Burn and Fabian Schar's futures, sources have told Football Insider.

The centre-back duo, both aged 34, are into the final years of their contracts at St James' Park and no decisions have yet been made about whether to extend their deals.

Discussions have been held internally at St James' Park about the club's next steps, but as things stand, they have yet to make an offer to either player.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Newcastle will resolve their contract issues before making moves to sign new players.

Whether or not Matthias Jaissle looks to sign a new centre-back in 2027 will depend on whether or not Burn and Schar remain at the club as they continue to weigh up talks.

Both experienced defenders still have a part to play in the squad as things stand, and could land new deals if they impress, but the decision could also go the other way.

Will Dan Burn be offered a new contract at Newcastle?

Football Insider revealed last month that Jaissle will have the final say on whether Newcastle extend Burn's contract as the boss wants to see him earn a new deal.

There is a feeling that the centre-back's experience and leadership qualities make him a valuable asset behind the scenes, even if he is not playing regularly.

That could mean Burn is offered an extension at St James' Park, and could put an end to Newcastle's pursuit of a new centre-back either in January or next summer.

Speaking on the Transfer Inisder podcast, I explained: "I would be surprised if Newcastle make a move to sign a new centre-back in January, maybe next summer.

"It remains to be seen depending on what the club have got planned for the futures of Fabian Schar and Dan Burn.

"Both of them are coming towards the end of their contracts and Newcastle are going to have to make a decision about whether they want to keep them around.

"Until that decision is made, I wouldn't expect Newcastle to go for another centre-back, because they are still quite well-stocked in that position."

What is next for Fabian Schar at Newcastle?

Alongside Burn, Newcastle will also be forced to make a decision about Schar's contract just months after he put pen to paper to extend his stay by an extra year.

The former Switzerland international was out of contract in the summer, but ultimately agreed to stay until 2027, and his situation will have to be addressed again in due course.

Football Insider repotted in June that Eddie Howe played a key role in convincing Schar to remain at the club, and the defender's expereinced was vued as a valuable asset.

With the Magpies now placing an emphasis on recrtuiting young talents, the 34-year-old could still have an important role to play behind the scenes and in the dressing room.

However, the final decision will likely be made by Jaissle, who now has months to decide whether he sees a long-term future for Schar at St James' Park.