Expert discusses whether Alexander Isak can now end Newcastle contract following secret ‘meeting’

A former financial adviser to Manchester City has clarified Alexander Isak’s position regarding a potential termination of his contract with Newcastle United, following a recent meeting about his future.

Newcastle lost 3-2 to Liverpool in a dramatic match on Monday, but the focus remained on Isak, who has not been available for selection under Eddie Howe due to his ongoing strike.

When questioned before and after the game, Howe stated he was unaware of a meeting that took place between Isak and Newcastle co-owner Jamie Reuben.

In an effort to persuade Isak to remain at the club and rejoin the squad, Reuben, along with representatives from PIF, visited the player at his home.

Financial expert Stefan Borson addressed whether Isak could legally end his contract with Newcastle, amid speculation that he might try to invoke FIFA’s Article 17 — a rule that allows players to terminate their contracts under specific conditions.

However, Borson explained that Isak is not currently in a legal position to cancel his contract, citing a specific clause in Premier League contracts that would override such action.

“There’s nothing particularly new here,” Borson told Football Insider. “Isak feels promises were made that haven’t been fulfilled, though they were likely informal rather than part of the contract. He feels betrayed and doesn’t want to continue at the club.

“Legally, though, those kinds of informal assurances don’t carry much weight. I don’t believe there’s any real basis for him to walk away under Article 17.”

Borson also pointed out that several factors would prevent the use of Article 17 this summer, including the fact that a potential move to Liverpool would be domestic, not international — which limits the article’s applicability.

He added, “Premier League contracts include a clause that requires disputes to be resolved under Premier League rules. FIFA regulations also clearly state that a player cannot unilaterally end their contract once the season has started. So, any attempt to use Article 17 now would be too late.”

Isak joined Newcastle from Real Sociedad in the summer of 2022 and is under contract until 2028. He has scored 62 goals in 109 appearances but has not played this season.