The appointment of highly-rated Paul Mitchell was a statement signing for Newcastle United as they continue their long-term project.
When Manchester United pushed hard to poach Dan Ashworth from the Tyneside club, it looked as though they were going to inflict a significant blow to Newcastle United‘s project.
However, the Magpies reacted quickly and moved to replace Ashworth with Paul Mitchell – who shares an equally impressive reputation as a sporting director.
Further changes have also been made behind the scenes, with club CEO Darren Eales hailing one new arrival who has a strong relationship with Mitchell.
Paul Mitchell‘s first task is to tackle this summer’s transfer window and Newcastle have already welcomed Lewis Hall, John Ruddy and Lloyd Kelly as new arrivals.
Mitchell has now spoken out on his long-term ambitions at the club and suggested where he wants the club to be in five years.
Paul Mitchell reveals ‘global’ Newcastle United plan
With the right resources and staff now at the club, it only seems a matter of time before Newcastle find themselves competing at the very top of European football.
After returning to the Champions League for the first time in 20 years under their new owners, fans will be desperate for more European adventures as soon as possible.
Speaking on an official club interview, Mitchell said “I’ve always been drawn to growth projects. I think it takes time and in the next five years, we’re going to have to rely on a level of patience.
“That’s a hard thing to ask for, but it’s important to understand that we are on a journey, it will take time.
“I think in five years I feel like we can be really challenging for important things and at an important level.
“And not just get there and partake once every five years, but get there and partake every year and put Newcastle United on the global map.”
Newcastle United next season
After narrowly missing out on European qualification last season, Newcastle’s sights will firmly be set on returning to continental football.
READ MORE: ‘Unstoppable’ winger has held talks with Newcastle United and Tottenham as contract talks collapse
Eddie Howe is the central core to Newcastle’s rebuild under new owners so keeping hold of him amid links to the England job will be crucial.
Despite Mitchell’s call for patience, fans will also want to see more transfer activity this summer as they piece-by-piece build up a title-winning squad.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
