Keith Downie drops major internal agreement claim on 69-cap Newcastle star Howe "really rates"

Newcastle United central defender Fabian Schar’s performances under Eddie Howe have resulted in him being in line for a new lucrative contract at St James’ Park, according to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie.

Howe was appointed as the Magpies’ head coach last November and Schar has been a key component of the Tyneside giants’ backline since.

According to TEAMtalk, Schar is on the brink of penning an extended contract and snubbing a move away from St James’ Park.

The report suggests the 30-year-old – who headed to Newcastle after the club activated the £3million release clause written into his Deportivo La Coruna agreement close to four years ago – has attracted offers from Lille, Borussia Monchengladbach and Galatasaray.

But Schar has made his long-term intentions clear by telling Swiss broadcaster SRF, via The Sun, he is enjoying life under Howe and the former Bournemouth chief has played a key role in convincing him to not seek a move away from Newcastle.

The Magpies are desperate to tie Schar down to a fresh contract as his current deal, worth £47,000-per-week, is due to expire in the summer.

With uncertainty over where his future lies, the 69-cap Switzerland international has been able to sign a pre-contract agreement with overseas suitors since the turn of the year.

Man City’s CHEATING REVEALED! Find out more on The Football Terrace…

Downie understands that Schar, along with midfielder Jonjo Shelvey, is a Newcastle star that Howe admires.

The Sky Sports reporter feels that Schar’s performances since the change of management have warranted an improved contract on Tyneside.

Downie told GIVEMESPORT: “Eddie Howe really rates Jonjo Shelvey and he rates Fabian Schar as well, so I think he’ll want to keep that continuity