Who is Paul Mitchell? Man Utd linked with Monaco’s transfer supremo who hired Spurs ace

Manchester United are ‘closing in’ on appointing Paul Mitchell as their new Head of player Recruitment, according to the Express.

The 40-year-old is currently in a similar role at Monaco, but has also worked with Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur and RB Leipzig.

He is known for bringing Heung-Min Son to Spurs during his time in north London, while also recruiting Sadio Mane for the Saints - his last signing at Southampton.

His ability to spot talent outside of the Premier League is likely another reason United are said to be interested in Mitchell, with the Englishman signing Christopher Nkunku for Leipzig.

These three players are just some examples of what Mitchell could bring to the table at Old Trafford, but what is the 40-year-old’s background?

Who is Paul Mitchell?

Born in Stalybridge, Mitchell is a former professional footballer turned recruiter after retiring from playing at the age of 27 due to injury.

The 40-year-old was a member of Manchester City’s youth team before joining Wigan Athletic and going on to play for the latter’s first team.

He spent several loan spells away from the Latics before eventually joining Milton Keynes Dons on a permanent deal in 2005.

In his four years at the Dons, Mitchell was captain and made 81 appearances in all competitions before hanging up his boots in 2009.

Recruitment journey

He began his recruitment career at MK Dons in 2010 where he signed former Red Devils forward Alan Smith for the League One side.

Mitchell gained Premier League experience with Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur between 2012 and 2017, before moving to Germany as Leipzig’s Head of Recruitment.

The Englishman then swapped Germany for France in June 2020, joining Monaco as Sporting Director.

How likely is the appointment to happen?

Mitchell is no stranger to current Red Devils’ interim boss Ralf Rangnick, with the pair working together at Leipzig - a key reason for his links to Old Trafford ahead of the new season.

The latter ‘loves’ Mitchell, according to journalist Chris Winterburn, who claims the Englishman would want a ‘serious role’ at United.

Rangick’s relationship with Mitchell, as well as the Red Devils recently announcing scouting duo Jim Lawlor and Marcel Bout will leave the club at the end of the season, help fuel what could be a big staff appointment for United.