Fabian Schar signs one-year contract to extend Newcastle United stay | OneFootball

Newcastle United have received a major boost to their defensive stability ahead of the new season, with veteran centre-back Fabian Schar signing a one-year contract extension.

The 34-year-old’s previous deal was due to expire at the end of June, sparking speculation about a possible summer exit from St James’ Park.

However, after discussions in recent weeks, the Magpies have secured the experienced defender’s future.

The new agreement means the 86-cap Switzerland international will enter his ninth consecutive season on Tyneside.

This will cement his status as the second-longest-serving player in the current squad behind captain Jamaal Lascelles.

Schar has proved a shrewd signing for Newcastle since his £3 million arrival from Deportivo La Coruna in July 2018, making 251 appearances across all competitions.

He has also contributed 22 goals – often spectacular long-range efforts. He was a cornerstone in the side that won the League Cup and secured back-to-back Champions League qualifications.

The extension comes at a crucial time for manager Eddie Howe, who was reluctant to lose the ‘absolute class‘ defender’s leadership with Kieran Trippier already leaving St James’ Park.

Schar’s previous campaign was cut short by a serious ankle injury suffered against Leeds United in January, a setback that disrupted Newcastle’s backline during the final months of the season.

With his rehabilitation progressing well, the Swiss defender is on track to be fully fit for pre-season.

Securing Schar for another year allows Newcastle to avoid an expensive search for a centre-half and focus their summer transfer budget on signing a new goalkeeper and attacking reinforcements.