Steve Bruce gives update on Federico Fernandez's Newcastle United future

The defender – who scored the club’s winner against Southampton last weekend – is out of contract at the end of the season.

Newcastle are already in talks with a number of players, notably Sean and Matty Longstaff and Isaac Hayden, over new deals.

Fernandez told the Gazette last week that he expected to have a discussion with the club in the New Year.

“We need to talk in January,” said Fernandez. “We will see what the club think about it. We will sit at the table and see what the options are. I haven’t spoken yet. I focus on playing, on the team. It’s December, so we have time.”

Fernandez, signed last year by Rafa Benitez on a two-year deal, has impressed head coach Steve Bruce in recent weeks. Asked about the 30-year-old’s form and contractual situation, Bruce said: “Doing very, very well. We'll see how they go. Of course, we'll talk to them when it's right.”

A number of players are looking for new deals at United. Could this be to the club’s advantage?

“I don't really think about that – I don't think I get involved,” said Bruce.

“I can only say what I say and I have only been here three or four months, but somebody running out of contract is not necessarily a bad thing, because the players are pushing for a new one, and we have still got plenty of time. We've got plenty of time.”