Alexander Isak might be able to jump ship from Newcastle without their permission as his Liverpool transfer saga took its latest twist on Tuesday evening
11:01, 20 Aug 2025
Alexander Isak
Alexander Isak is pushing for a move to Liverpool(Image: PA)
Newcastle United might be rendered powerless to stop Alexander Isak from jumping ship to Liverpool.
Isak, 25, has been strongly linked to the banks of the River Mersey this summer - and the transfer saga took its latest twist on Tuesday evening as the Swedish striker took to social media with a bombshell statement.
He claimed promises had been "broken and trust is lost" as Newcastle hit back, denying the claims, and doubling down on their stance he would not be allowed to leave the club this summer. However, Isak could still leave due to a little-known law.
FIFA's Article 17, which was recently changed thanks to ex-Premier League star Lassana Diarra, has made it easier for players to force a move that their club must accept.
Under the previous rules, a player that terminated their own deal without a "just cause" would be liable for compensation for breach of contract alongside his new club.
Alexander Isak looks on
Alexander Isak could move due to a little known law(Image: Alex Dodd - CameraSport via Getty Images)
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The player in question could even face a ban from playing or be denied an international transfer certificate.
In 2014, Diarra was denied an international transfer certificate when he tried to force his way out of Russian side Lokomotiv Moscow. He claimed it ruined his career and the rules were illegal.
Diarra said it restricted the freedom of players to change jobs like ordinary people, taking FIFA to court - who were forced to tweak their laws. He is back in court currently, seeking £56million in compensation.
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Under the new rules, a player that triggers Article 17 must do so within 15 days of the final match of the season. However, it can only be done by stars who have had a full three years under contract at the club.
Once that happens, the player is free to join another team.
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Isak would only be able to use this clause next summer, and Liverpool would not have to pay a fee. However, FIFA would stump up the compensation to Newcastle.