Newcastle United have announced the capture of Fabian Schar from Deportivo.
The centre-back was part of the Switzerland side that exited the World Cup at the last-16 stage, with Schar suspended for their eventual 1-0 loss to Sweden.
“Newcastle United have completed the signing of Swiss international Fabian Schär on a permanent deal from Deportivo La Coruña,” a statement read on the club’s official website.
“The defender – who has signed an initial three-year contract – becomes the Magpies’ fourth acquisition of the summer, following the permanent arrivals of Martin Dúbravka and Ki-Sung Yeung and the loan capture of Kenedy.
“Schär played in three of his country’s four games at the recent World Cup in Russia, helping the Swiss to progress from Group E – along with Brazil – before missing their last-16 defeat to Sweden through suspension.
“He made 25 appearances for Deportivo in La Liga last season, having moved to the Spanish outfit from 1899 Hoffenheim a year ago.”
On his move to Newcastle, Schar said: “I’m really happy to be here. The club is a really big club for me. It has a big name, and it is a brilliant chance for me.
“I’m not like a typical defender. I, of course, defend, but I’m quite good with the ball – I like to play, I want to build up the game from behind, and I think that is a strength of mine. I have also scored some headers – that could also be a strength and hopefully I can use it here.
“I hope to start training with the team soon, and I’m looking forward to everything that’s coming. At the moment, I just want to get started.”
Head coach Rafa Benitez added: “I’m really pleased to welcome Fabian to Newcastle United. He is an international, did well in the World Cup and has great experience.
“He adds competition in this position and that is a positive for the team.”
