Newcastle United are keen to sign defender Fabian Schar to a new contract before the European Championships.

Schar is set to become a free agent in the summer, as his contract expires when the season concludes.

There is a clause in the centre-back's deal that if all parties agree, the contract is extended by one more year.

According to The Northern Echo, Magpies boss Steve Bruce wants to exercise that option, as the 29-year-old is regarded as a key member of the first team squad.

The club is worried that Schar could raise his value when playing for Switzerland at this summer's rescheduled Euro 2020 tournament.