There has been plenty talk of outgoings on Tyneside this month, but it seems the club are also working away to protect the contract status of several players.

Dan Burn and Sean Longstaff have already triggered a contract extensions, extending their deals a further 12 months until 2026, while Anthony Gordon was also rewarded with a new and improved long-term deal at the end of October.

Callum Wilson, Martin Dubravka and Jamaal Lascelles are three at risk of leaving as free agents this summer, but there is another Mag in a similar boat who is on course to extend his stay at St James’ Park.

Toon in talks over new deal

After revealing that Newcastle are considering a summer move for Bournemouth centre-back Illia Zabarnyi, the i’s Mark Douglas has issued an update on Fabian Schar’s future.

He reports that Newcastle are currently in negotiations over a new deal for the Swiss defender, who is currently at risk of leaving on a free at the end of the season.

It’s believed ‘all parties’ are keen to see him stay, with Eddie Howe feeling the 33-year-old still has plenty to offer his side.

While our scouting team are looking long-term and identifying right-sided options able to partner Sven Botman in the years ahead, there is definitely still room in the squad for someone like Schar who has been so dependable these last few seasons.

Keeping Schar could be key next season

Ideally, we would have a younger defender to fit into that right-sided centre-back role for next season, but with the potential of European football next season, Schar’s experience and class is still valuable to the squad.

With Jamaal Lascelles set to depart this summer and depth essential if we’re to enter into another European adventure next term, it would not make sense to lose such a capable option on a free.

Schar’s current deal is set to expire in the summer but everything points to him getting an extension with his family settled in the area and Eddie Howe obviously being a huge fan of the defender.