Former Newcastle United favourite set for brutal early contract termination

Federico Fernandez is reportedly set to have his contract terminated by Elche CF - just three months after joining from Newcastle United.

The Argentine defender moved to Spain on summer transfer deadline day having last played for the Magpies in December last year, namely because of injuries.

And it seems the 33-year-old has struggled to put those problems behind him, with Fernandez appearing just once for the La Liga side, who are rock bottom of the table.

According to Estadio Deportivo, Elche have informed Fernandez that due to his “physical problems”, the Spanish club “does not want to continue with his services” and as a result are negotiating a contract termination - six months early.

Fernandez made 89 appearances for the Magpies after arriving from Swansea City in 2018. Despite the limited game time during the centre-back’s final season, head coach Eddie Howe held the veteran in very high regard.

“Fede, what an incredible professional, great guy. I can’t speak highly enough of him and his contribution to the football club over many years,” Howe said.

“Unfortunately for us, he picked up a couple of injuries, so we didn’t get to see a lot of him on the pitch, but, behind the scenes, he’s been incredible for us and he goes with our best wishes.”