Frank Christian
This summer, Eddie Howe will oversee Newcastle United’s transfer activities following the early departure of sporting director Paul Mitchell, who leaves the club by mutual agreement effective at the end of June.
Mitchell’s exit concludes a short and tumultuous period at St James’ Park. The 43-year-old joined in July 2024 from AS Monaco, with the goal of revamping the club’s long-term recruitment approach after Dan Ashworth moved to Manchester United.
However, Mitchell was quickly constrained by strict Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), which necessitated hastily selling Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh in June 2024 to avoid a possible points deduction.
Additionally, there were reports of increasing frustration for Mitchell when his pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi fell through last summer.
His straightforward mid-season remarks, stating that the transfer strategy was “not fit for purpose,” reflected his dissatisfaction and attracted attention.
According to sources from The i Newspaper, Howe will now take on significant decision-making responsibilities, backed by recruitment head Steve Nickson and assistant head scout Andy Howe, his nephew.
The Magpies face a crucial challenge as this transition occurs just before an essential summer window, where Newcastle supporters are anticipating considerable investment after three windows of minimal action.
In his farewell message, Mitchell expressed gratitude to the club and mentioned the upcoming exit of CEO Darren Eales, who has been diagnosed with blood cancer, as a personal reason for his timing. “I’m departing at a moment that feels right for both me and the club,” Mitchell stated, adding that Newcastle remains “in excellent hands.”
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