Ratcliffe eyes first MAJOR move after Man Utd investment
Tom Weber
- 16 Oct 2023 12:24 BST
- 3 min read
Manchester United could appoint Paul Mitchell as sporting director once Sir Jim Ratcliffe's acquisition of a minority stake is ratified, according to a report.
Mitchell is a sought-after man having recently left Ligue 1 side Monaco. Formerly also of Tottenham and RB Leipzig, Mitchell enjoys a solid reputation as illustrated by the fact Liverpool and Chelsea were previously interested in acquiring his services.
Towards the back end of last season, Liverpool were heavily linked with Mitchell given that Julian Ward was set to depart as the club's sporting director. The Reds ultimately ended up bringing Jorg Schmadkte out of retirement. Over the past two summers, reports also claimed that Mitchell was on his way to Chelsea, but here too nothing materialised.
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This could change now, however. According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Mitchell recently moved to Manchester and he is keen on joining Man Utd.
Ratcliffe favourite
It is claimed that Mitchell is set for a role as Man Utd sporting director once Ratcliffe's investment in the club is ratified. The INEOS billionaire will acquire a 25 per cent stake in the Red Devils after a lengthy bidding war with Sheikh Jassim.
Ratcliffe and his camp are said to be long-time admirers of Mitchell, having previously tried to land him for their Ligue 1 side OGC Nice. Jacobs reports that "Mitchell is a leading name under consideration at Man Utd under Sir Jim Ratcliffe."
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"Mitchell’s preference," Jacobs continued, "is to return to the Premier League and if Ratcliffe is successful, sources indicate it is most likely he would solely focus on Man Utd rather than INEOS’ full portfolio should he be offered a role. That part is still not guaranteed."
He also revealed that celebrated former Liverpool chief of recruitment Michael Edwards is admired by INEOS, but a move for him at this stage is unlikely.
