Newcastle United could reportedly drop Fabian Schar from their starting line-up next season as they plot a summer move for a new partner for Sven Botman.

The Lowdown: Unsung hero

Schar has been somewhat of an unsung hero for Newcastle this term, with Harry Redknapp claiming that he goes 'under the radar' in glowing praise of the central defender:

"He’s quick, good in the air and very composed on the ball. There’s not many better centre-half pairings than Schar and Botman.”

The partnership with Botman has seen the St. James' Park outfit concede just 15 goals in the Premier League so far, by far the best defensive record in the division, and could be key to them qualifying for the UEFA Champions League next campaign.

The Latest: Schar to be dropped?

As per Football Insider, the North East club are plotting a move for a new centre-back partner for Botman this summer, which would in turn mean dropping Schar from the starting line-up.

They are hoping to qualify for the Champions League in order to unlock funds for a new 'top-class' centre-half, with Bayer Leverkusen's Piero Hincapie one mentioned as a potential target, while captain Jamaal Lascelles is expected to leave this summer.

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The Verdict: Very harsh

It would be very harsh on Schar to be dropped next term considering how impressive he has been on Tyneside.

Eddie Howe called him 'hugely important' upon him signing a new contract in 2022, and that is reflected in his performances, as he averages more aerial duels, interceptions, clearances and long balls per game than any of his team-mates in the Premier League, including Botman (WhoScored).

At 31 years of age, Schar will have to be upgraded on eventually, but this is perhaps a case for the Magpies of not trying to fix something that is not broken.