- Paul Mitchell has joined Newcastle United as the club’s new sporting director
- His appointment comes days after Dan Ashworth left to join Manchester United
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Newcastle United have appointed Paul Mitchell as the club’s new sporting director.
Mitchell has previously worked with Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur and RB Leipzig on player recruitment.
He replaces Dan Ashworth, who recently left Newcastle to join Manchester United following drawn-out negotiations over compensation.
Mitchell – who has also held roles with MK Dons and AS Monaco in the past – said in a club statement on Thursday: ‘It’s with immense pride that I accept the responsibility of being Newcastle United’s new sporting director.
‘I’ve seen the recent growth and ambition of the club. This, plus the amazing fan base, made the decision to join an easy one. I can’t wait to get started and help continue the organisation’s growth and long-term competitiveness in all areas of elite football performance.’
Newcastle CEO Darren Eales added: ‘We are delighted to welcome Paul to Newcastle United. He brings a successful track record and wealth of experience to the club.
‘His extensive and diverse experience in football leadership, cultural change and recruitment mean he is the ideal person to lead our sporting directorate.
‘We look forward to working with Paul and supporting him in our pursuit of long-term, sustainable success.’
Mitchell’s appointment came less than a week after Ashworth’s move to Old Trafford had been agreed by all parties.
Ashworth had been on gardening leave for four months and was about to take Newcastle to arbitration after they rejected United’s offer of £2million and demanded £20m.
However, the two clubs reached a compromise and issued a joint-statement last weekend.
The statement read: ‘Newcastle United and Manchester United have reached an agreement for the immediate release of Dan Ashworth from his contractual obligations at Newcastle United.
‘The terms of this agreement remain confidential between the clubs. Newcastle United thanks Dan for his services and wishes him well for the future.’