"More vital than Shelvey" - Journalist sends big contract message to PIF over Newcastle star

Newcastle United should prioritise handing a new long-term contract to Fabian Schar over negotiating fresh terms with Jonjo Shelvey, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

An upturn in form, which has seen the Magpies win four of their last five fixtures, has allowed Eddie Howe’s side to climb four points clear of the Premier League’s relegation zone.

The Telegraph have revealed Schar and Shelvey are set to be offered new contracts at St James’ Park.

The report suggests their prominence since Howe’s appointment as Steve Bruce’s successor in November has made negotiations a priority.

Schar’s current deal, worth £47,000-per-week, expires at the end of June and that has led to interest from other clubs.

According to MailOnline, Napoli were keen on acquiring the central defender during the January transfer window, while AC Milan, Sevilla, Valencia and Premier League sides have also set their sights on securing Schar’s signature.

Meanwhile, Shelvey has entered the final 18 months of his £70,000-per-week agreement on Tyneside and his value will decrease if Newcastle fail to agree fresh terms with the 30-year-old midfielder.

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O’Rourke has warned the Saudi Arabia-based Public Investment Fund that negotiating a new contract with Schar is of more importance than tying Shelvey down to an extended deal.

The journalist feels Newcastle would suffer a major blow if 69-cap Switzerland international Schar were to depart without the Magpies claiming a fee.

O’Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: “Fabian Schar is more vital than Shelvey to sort out right now. He’s out of contract in the summer.

“You probably don’t want to lose players with Schar’s versatility and experience on