The bargain Newcastle United star who’d ‘be worth an absolute fortune’ - according to Eddie Howe

Eddie Howe believes one of his Newcastle United players would be worth an “absolute fortune” if he was starting his career now.

No defender has played more minutes for the Magpies since Howe took charge in November 2021 than Switzerland international Fabian Schar.

Whilst remaining rock solid at the back, Schar is a good value for an incredible goal and even by his standards, it’s unlikely to match his strike against Paris Saint-Germain, not just for technique but the occasion.

The 31-year-old’s long-distance goal capped off a memorable 4-1 win at St James’ Park on its first Champions League night for 20 years.

“It’s not a conventional center-half’s finish, It’s a centre-forward’s finish,” said Howe. “But he has the capability to produce moments to take your breath away. He’s technically so good.”

On an evening where Geordie boys Dan Burn and Sean Longstaff, plus Miguel Almiron, also found the net, Schar’s strike was a story within itself.

Prior to the PIF-led takeover and the arrival of Howe, Schar, by his own admission, was heading out of St James’ Park after falling out of favour with Steve Bruce.

But almost two years later, Schar has arguably become one (if not the one) of United’s best pound-for-pound signings having signed him from Spanish side Deportivo de La Coruna for just £3million.

Even in 2018 when Schar was recruited by Rafa Benitez, that price tag was extremely low. But in the five years since, transfer fees have inflated significantly which begs the question, how much would the ball-playing defender be worth now?

“It’s not about price because that’s only what someone pays and what someone agrees to receive for the player,” Howe replied. “He’s just been excellent, he really has.

“If he was starting his career now, he’d be worth an absolute fortune. He’s a top player and I’m really pleased that he’s getting the consistency and the accolades for his performances.”

Schar has made 152 appearance for Newcastle in total. His current contract expires at the end of the season but Howe is keen to offer him a new deal.