Newcastle United have already made transfer decision as double contract agreement goes public

Newcastle United are still targeting a central defender this summer, despite news of two new contracts in the last seven days.

The Magpies announced last week that Fabian Schar had signed a new one-year extension, which will take him into an eighth season at St James’ Park after joining for just £3million from Deportivo La Coruna in 2018.

Schar is regarded as one of the club’s best Premier League bargains, having made over 200 appearances and scored some iconic goals, including his strike in the 4-1 win over Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League last season.

Meanwhile, club captain Jamaal Lascelles was understood to be out of contract this June and while Newcastle are yet to make an official announcement, it has recently been revealed that the 31-year-old is under contract until the end of the 2025-26 campaign.

It’s been over a year since Lascelles last featured for the Magpies after suffering an ACL injury during the 4-3 comeback win over West Ham United. He is unlikely to return before the end of the campaign, which had raised fears he’d played his final game in black and white.

Newcastle United still targeting a centre-back in this summer’s transfer window

Despite there being no plans to part ways with Schar and Lascelles, signing a centre-back remains a priority for Eddie Howe and Newcastle’s recruitment team this summer.

Click here to join NewcastleWorld's dedicated NUFC WhatsApp channel for news, videos and voice notes. CLICK THE BELL FOR NOTIFICATIONS.

The Magpies have been fortunate that both Schar and defensive partner Dan Burn have stayed injury-free this campaign due to minimal cover. As mentioned, Lascelles hasn’t played since last March while Sven Botman has managed just five appearances in 24-25 because of knee issues.

Not only that, but it is an ageing part of United’s squad, with only Botman under the age of 30.

Which players could Newcastle United target?

Newcastle made Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi their number one transfer target last summer but refused to meet his £70million price tag. The England international remains of interest as he enters the final 12 months of his contract.

When asked about Guehi’s contract situation last month, Palace boss Oliver Glasner cast doubt over his future.

“We haven’t just started talking about his contract,” said Glasner. “The talks were going on even before I arrived – for more than two years now. Marc is thinking what is best for his personal career and this is what we have to accept.

“I don’t know [if he will sign a new deal]. I don’t think about what happens in summer. On the 26th of May, I will turn my phone off for one or two weeks and then we will see what happens.

“Everybody knows he is a great footballer and great character. Let’s see what happens. But, of course, no manager would want to lose their captain. It will be Marc’s decision, but I know that he is so focused on improving his game and our game. It has no influence on his performances.”

Newcastle are also admirers of Liverpool’s Jarell Quansah, although sources on Merseyside have played down the chances of that happening. Talks have been held with the representatives of AFC Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen but competition is high with his £50m release clause set to become active in the coming months.

Sporting director Paul Mitchell and his team of scouts are exploring options outside of England.

YOUR NEXT READ: 'In touch' - Agent confirms 2023 Newcastle United talks with Champions League sensation.