EXCLUSIVE: Turnaround complete as Newcastle convince rejuvenated star to snub trio and sign new deal
Newcastle United are close to finalising a new deal with Swiss defender Fabian Schar, who is set to shun a number of offers from abroad, TEAMtalk understands.
The cash-rich Magpies are beginning plans for next season after all-but guaranteeing their Premier League future. Five January signings appear to have given Newcastle the impetus they need, after struggling in the first half of the season. Now sat in 15th and 10 points clear of the drop, the Toon can now effectively make plans for next season.
Indeed, Eddie Howe will be afforded another handsome transfer budget in an effort to push Newcastle into the top half of the table. As such, a number of big names are being linked with moves.
Top of their agenda appears to be a new talismanic striker. To that end, they are casting admiring glances in the direction of a Napoli dangerman.
A big part of what Howe is trying to build at Newcastle stems from having a solid and settled defence. Clean sheets in the wins over Wolves, Brentford, Leeds and Aston Villa this year have proved important steps in the rebuilding process.
Offers from abroad
And one man at the heart of that is Schar, who has seriously impressed Howe since taking charge.
He appeared certain to leave St James’ Park at the end of the season with his deal due to expire. With offers from clubs in France, Germany and Turkey, the Swiss star appears a man in demand.
Indeed, Lille, Borussia Monchengladbach and Galatasaray are among those to have made contact with his agent.
Furthermore, it was recently reported that his agent has held talks with representatives of AC Milan
However, TEAMtalk understands that Howe and Newcastle are set to agree a new long-term deal for Schar.
The 30-year-old has even risen ahead of captain Jamal Lascelles in the pecking order, on the back of his form.
Fabian Schar always wanted Newcastle stay
Schar, however, has always made clear his wish to stay at St James’ Park.
Indeed, Schar himself said in March: “Everyone at the club knows how comfortable I feel in this team and under this coach.
“I can well imagine staying at Newcastle beyond the summer. It wasn’t always like that; things weren’t always very happy for me under the old owner.
“The next few weeks will show how things will go for me. Newcastle are certainly my priority.”
Now it seems both player and club have got their wish with Schar likely to sign a new two-year deal. That will keep the 69-times capped Switzerland international on Tyneside until summer 2024.
Since signing from Deportivo La Coruna in 2019, Schar has played 96 times for Newcastle, scoring a commendable nine goals.
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