Eddie Howe has confirmed that Fabian Schar and Sean Longstaff are set to hold contract talks with the club over potential new deals at St James’ Park.
Both are out of contract this summer, with Schar’s situation of particular concern given his superb form at centre-back since Howe took the job.
The NUFC boss has revealed that talks between the club and the Swiss international’s agent are set to get underway “very soon” over an extension.
As for Longstaff, Howe insists that he’s a player he rates highly – believing he still has a long term future at the club despite his lack of game time.
The midfielder has only started two Premier League games since the former Bournemouth boss arrived, yet he believes Sean can still become a “top player” on Tyneside – suggesting he is another he’ll attempt to tie down.
Here’s what Howe had to say when speaking about both at today’s press conference:
Howe on Fabian Schar:
“He’s defended very well.
“He’s another one that’s trained really well.
“We’re aware of his contract situation and we’ll be sitting down and discussing things with his agent very shortly.”
Howe on Sean Longstaff:
“I love Sean, but I maybe haven’t displayed that with my team selections.
“That’s only because it is a really strong area of the team, Bruno is not playing either.
“I really do rate him highly and I am desperate for him to get an opportunity and show everyone on a consistent basis what he can do because he’s a top player.
“I would love him to stay and there is no part of me that wants to see him leave and I believe he has a long-term future here.
“That is Sean’s decision as well.”
