Manchester United’s hunt for a new sporting director has entered a crucial phase ahead of what is expected to be a summer of high turnover at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils remain without a permanent appointment in the role following the exit of Dan Ashworth, whose arrival from Newcastle United earlier this year came at the cost of a drawn-out compensation battle.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS group has made structural reform a priority, and with multiple high-profile figures leaving or stepping aside across the Premier League, a unique opportunity may have just presented itself.
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United continue to monitor top-level executives across Europe, but fresh developments on Tyneside could shift their attention back home.
Paul Mitchell has confirmed he will leave Newcastle United by mutual consent at the end of June 2025, potentially handing United the chance to land an elite operator without forking out a compensation fee.
Paul Mitchell, 43, only joined Newcastle in July 2024, linking up again with Magpies CEO Darren Eales, who had originally brought him to Tottenham Hotspur a decade earlier.
However, his tenure is set to last just 12 months, with Mitchell confirming his decision to step away amid wider changes behind the scenes, including the upcoming departure of Eales due to health reasons.
In his short time at St James’ Park, Mitchell helped oversee a highly successful campaign that saw Newcastle win their first domestic trophy in 70 years, lifting the Carabao Cup in March 2025.
The Magpies also secured Champions League football for the 2025/26 season.
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Mitchell issued a statement on his departure saying, “I’d like to thank everyone at Newcastle United for their support over the last year, including Eddie Howe, Becky Langley, the players, staff, owners and fans.
“It has been an honour to be part of the club and to work with some incredible people.
“I’m leaving at a time that is right for me and the club, particularly with Darren Eales – someone who I have worked so closely with in my career – moving on soon.
“The club is in great hands on and off the pitch, and is in a fantastic position to continue building.
“I’d like to wish everyone connected with Newcastle United a bright and successful future.”
Mitchell was previously linked with a move to Old Trafford before Ashworth’s appointment but could now be reconsidered by INEOS, especially with no fee required to prise him away this time.
With major decisions looming at Manchester United, a figure of Mitchell’s experience and availability could prove tempting for the Old Trafford hierarchy.
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