Eddie Howe reveals contract talks between Paul Mitchell and Newcastle United 'elite' player

Fabian Schar remains in talks over signing a new contract at Newcastle United.

The former Switzerland international is widely regarded as one of Newcastle’s best bargains in the Premier League era, signing him from Deportivo La Coruna for just £3million in 2018.

Schar has gone on to make over 214 appearances for the Magpies, over half of which have come since Eddie Howe was appointed as head coach in November 2021.

The 33-year-old is out of contract at the end of the campaign but Howe wants to keep him. Conversations between sporting director Paul Mitchell and Schar’s representatives are taking place.

Newcastle United hold contract talks with Fabian Schar

Speaking ahead of Saturday’s trip to Manchester City, Howe said: “I know there have been discussions taking place between Paul Mitchell and Fabian's representatives, so fingers crossed we find a solution and we get to a situation where everyone's happy and Fabian can extend his stay with us.”

Schar was a key performer for Newcastle in last week’s 2-0 Carabao Cup semi-final second-leg victory over Arsenal, and was heavily praised for his role in Anthony Gordon’s goal.

Leading the high press, Schar won the ball off Declan Rice on the edge of the box, leading to Gordon gaining possession and finding the bottom left corner at the Gallowgate End.

“I think you can see in recent games, he's been very good in different jobs that we've given him to do,” Howe added. “I think he is a player that you can use in different ways, very, very flexible in a sense that his game suits the modern way.

“I think his technical ability goes without saying, but he's very, very good off the ball. Again, he's quite comfortable jumping into midfield to help us with our press. He's quite comfortable obviously staying in his position as well, but it's that sort of tactical understanding.

“I think he's elite with his brain in terms of seeing the game. That's what you get with experienced players in that area of the pitch. It's him, Dan and the other defenders we've had have done really well this year.”

In other news, Newcastle United issue Anthony Gordon, Sven Botman & Dan Burn injury update ahead of Man City clash.