Liverpool have now ruled out AS Monaco sporting director Paul Mitchell as a potential replacement for Julian Ward.
That’s according to The Independent, who have shared an update on the Reds’ search.
As per the report, the Merseyside outfit had initially explored the idea of bringing the 41-year-old to Anfield this summer, as they look to secure a successor for the soon-to-be vacant sporting director role.
However, it has now been clarified that Mitchell is out of the running, meaning he won’t be joining Liverpool this summer.
The Reds have seen an upheaval in their backroom staff over the past year, as it was already a shock for Michael Edwards to announce his departure – let alone Ward as well.
Mitchell out of the running for Liverpool role
These events actually seem quite bizarre. One moment, Liverpool are set to hold talks with Mitchell over the coming weeks. The next, he is no longer in the running.
Instead, it now seems like Manchester United could be the club to hire the director from Monaco.
According to The Independent, the former RB Leipzig chief has been earmarked for a role in any INEOS football structure at Old Trafford, should Sir Jim Ratcliffe complete a takeover of the Red Devils.
The recruitment guru has announced he is set to leave the Ligue 1 club upon the appointment of his successor, and that he is eyeing a return to England, where he previously worked for Tottenham, Southampton and MK Dons.
Liverpool fans were excited at the prospect of Mitchell coming into the club, given his excellent pedigree, which saw him assist with the signings of Dele Alli, Son Heung-min, Kieran Trippier and Toby Alderweireld whilst he was at Spurs.
Thus, hailed for having ‘exceptionally high standards’ by former Southampton scout David Webb, Reds supporters will be disappointed by this news.