Eddie Howe will take charge of Newcastle United’s transfer operations this summer following the early exit of sporting director Paul Mitchell, who will leave the club by mutual consent at the end of June.
Mitchell’s departure ends a brief and turbulent stint at St James’ Park. The 43-year-old, who only joined in July 2024 from AS Monaco, was tasked with the makeover of the club’s long-term recruitment strategy after the exit of Dan Ashworth to Manchester United.
Instead, Mitchell was immediately boxed in by strict Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), which forced last-minute sales of Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh in June 2024 to avoid a points deduction.
Mitchell also reportedly faced mounting frustration after his attempt to land Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi last summer fell through.
His blunt mid-season comments, describing the transfer strategy as “not fit for purpose,” showed his discontent and raised eyebrows.
Sources at The i Newspaper report that Howe will now assume key decision-making powers, supported by recruitment chief Steve Nickson and assistant head scout Andy Howe, his nephew.
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The Magpies have a task on their hands as the shake up comes ahead of a vital summer window where Newcastle fans expect some serious spending after three windows of limited movement.
Mitchell, in his parting statement, thanked the club and cited the forthcoming departure of CEO Darren Eales, who was diagnosed with blood cancer last year, as a personal factor in his timing. “I’m leaving at a time that is right for me and the club,” Mitchell said, adding that Newcastle is “in great hands.”
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