Alexander Isak could leave Newcastle United next summer on a free transfer, thanks to a little-known tweak in FIFA’s rulebook. Under the revised Article 17 of the Regulations on Transfer and Status of Players, the Swedish striker can unilaterally terminate his contract two years early in June 2026. This situation leaves Newcastle facing a significant decision as tensions rise at St. James’ Park.
Current Situation at Newcastle
Isak isn’t training with the first team and missed the Premier League opener against Aston Villa. Liverpool has shown interest, but their £110 million bid was turned down as Newcastle insists he is not for sale. Adding to the drama, Isak publicly accused the club of “broken promises,” highlighting the growing discontent.
The Legal Shift and Article 17
Journalist Gabriele Marcotti explains that a legal case involving Lassana Diarra prompted FIFA to change its rules. Previously, national associations could withhold a player’s transfer certificate for contract breaches, but that power has now evaporated. FIFA must now issue the certificate, allowing players more freedom to move.
Here’s how Article 17 works:
- Invocation Timeline: Isak can invoke Article 17 within 15 days of Newcastle’s last match of the 2025/26 season, which is scheduled for May 24. This means he has until June 8 to formally terminate his contract.
- Free Agency Date: If he follows through, Isak could sign with another club starting July 1, 2026—two years before his current contract is set to expire.
Compensation and Potential Outcomes
While Newcastle could still receive compensation for Isak, it may be significantly reduced. According to Marcotti, the fee could be as low as half of Liverpool’s rejected offer. FIFA will determine the compensation based on factors such as:
- Isak’s remaining wages
- His value to Newcastle
- The cost of replacing him
Newcastle also has the option to appeal any decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, but that process can take up to two years—leaving Isak with time to don another club’s jersey.
What Lies Ahead for Newcastle?
For Newcastle, the reality of waiting for potentially limited funds might push them to consider a sale before the transfer window closes. Since joining from Real Sociedad in 2022, Isak has impressed, netting 62 goals in 109 games, including a goal in the Carabao Cup final that ended the club’s 70-year wait for silverware.
Whether Newcastle stands firm or opts to cash in, this ongoing saga emphasizes that modern football is as much about tactics as it is about timing and contractual clauses. Sometimes, the most critical decisions resemble the seemingly trivial choice of whether to queue for fish and chips on a Saturday night.