The Athletic share update on Federico Fernandez’s future with contract up in 6 months time

Chris Waugh did a Q&A on all things Newcastle United with his new employers The Athletic yesterday.

One of the questions asked was regarding the contract situation of Federico Fernandez, as the Argentinian’s current deal is due to expire next summer as things stand.

Here’s what the former Chronicle man had to say about his future:

“Fernandez is an interesting one.

“The last I heard was that there was nothing imminent with regard to the Argentine, who will be free to speak with clubs abroad come January.

“His form in recent weeks has been impressive but, given that Newcastle have six senior centre-backs, I’m not sure how sustainable it is keeping them all.

“Lascelles’ injury may accelerate potential talks with him, though.”

I don’t think there’s a single Newcastle fan who wouldn’t want Fernandez to commit to us for at least another couple of years.

He’s a class act, and was simply brilliant against West Ham and Bournemouth. I’d go as far to say, and this is just my personal opinion, that he’s the best defender we have, when it comes to just pure defending.

I rate Lascelles and think he’s been a fantastic player and captain for us over the last three years, but considering that he’s supposedly out until the new year, Fernandez looks all set for an extended run in the team – and he deserves it.

Now, while Ciaran Clark has been playing very well, and Dummett never lets us down, a back three of Fabian Schar, Fernandez and the returning Florian Lejeune is one that we are very likely to see in the coming weeks, and that excites me.

That genuinely could develop into one of the best defences we’ve ever had, and how many other Premier League teams can boast a back line like that?

What’s worrying though, is the fact Rafa Benitez had to fight to sign 30 year old Fernandez, who isn’t exactly indicative of Ashley’s transfer blueprint.

Let’s hope that something gets sorted soon, with the 30-year-old proving over the past two weeks that he’s still got plenty of offer Newcastle United.

(Fancy writing for us? Send any articles/ideas over to us at [email protected] & we’ll get back to you!)

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