LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 27: Newcastle United sporting director Paul Mitchell during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Newcastle United FC at Stamford Bridge on October 27, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Robin Jones/Getty Images)
Paul Mitchell is reshaping Newcastle United’s approach as the club looks to improve its transfer strategy for a stronger 2025. The 2024 season has been tough for the Magpies, with PSR restrictions limiting their ability to enhance the squad without selling a major player. As a result, Eddie Howe has struggled to bolster his starting XI, leaving the team feeling somewhat stagnant. With the need for change, Mitchell is now focusing on revamping Newcastle’s recruitment tactics.
The sporting director aims to broaden the club’s transfer targets, moving away from the traditional focus on high-cost, established Premier League players. Instead, Newcastle is shifting its attention to younger talents from across Europe, as reported by the Telegraph. This strategy is intended to provide more cost-effective options, though the club will still consider domestic players, particularly those nearing the end of their contracts. These players often represent better value as their prices drop.
Marc Guehi, for example, fits this profile. Newcastle had pursued him during the summer but balked at Crystal Palace’s high asking price for the England international. While the club seeks to avoid overpaying for established Premier League names, Guehi remains on their radar as his contract with Palace enters its final 18 months.
Since the PIF takeover, Newcastle’s transfer policy has leaned heavily towards domestic signings, with Eddie Howe preferring players from within England. However, there has been a mix of international acquisitions like Bruno Guimaraes, Sven Botman, and Alexander Isak. Of the 20 senior players signed since the takeover, 13 have come from domestic clubs.
Mitchell’s shift towards targeting foreign-based players should help ease the PSR restrictions while adding fresh talent to the squad. Reports indicate Newcastle’s interest in Johan Bakayoko, a promising young player, although high-profile targets like Bryan Mbeumo and Antoine Semenyo are considered too costly. The club is also keeping tabs on Baris Alper Yilmaz, a standout player for Galatasaray in Turkey.
