Newcastle right to sell Federico Fernandez

Federico Fernandez has an uncertain future at Newcastle United after falling down the pecking order under Eddie Howe. The 33-year-old has been short of playing time this season as Dan Burn, Fabian Schar and Jamaal Lascelles have been preferred at centre-back, resulting in zero minutes of playing time in 2022.

His contract at St James’ Park is up in 12 months too, so Newcastle have a decision to make. If Fernandez has no future beyond 2023, the Magpies will have to cash in this summer while he still has value or risk losing him on a free transfer next year. Luke Edwards of the Telegraph says Newcastle will listen to offers for Fernandez this summer, so they could make some money back through his sale.

The Argentine international joined Newcastle on a five-year deal from Swansea City in 2018 and has gone on to make 89 appearances in all competitions. Fernandez has only made seven Premier League appearances this season, however, as he was dropped after poor form earlier in the campaign.

Fernandez set Newcastle back £6m in 2018, so they’re likely to take a loss on him. His market value is £1.8m and he earns £2.5m-a-year/£47k-per-week in wages, so Newcastle could make back £4.2m if they can drum up enough interest.

In other news, Newcastle should consider Sam Johnstone to replace Karl Darlow