Newcastle United rip up player's contract on deadline day

Head coach Steve Bruce told Ki that he was not in his plans late last year, and the club today confirmed that Ki has left the club by “mutual consent”.

The 31-year-old midfielder, signed from Swansea City in the summer of 2018 by then-manager Rafa Benitez, can find a club as a free agent from tomorrow.

Ki said: “I’m always grateful for our fans’ support. It was great honour and happiness of mine to play for such a great club as Newcastle United. I never forget the time with Newcastle fans. It’s a pity that I could not do better, but sometimes in football, there are things I could not overcome. Thanks a lot to everybody and so long."

In a statement, the club said: “Newcastle United thank Ki for his service and wish him well for the future.”