Plymouth Argyle have opened early discussions over a permanent move for on-loan defender Alex Mitchell.
Head coach Tom Cleverley has confirmed the club would like to retain the Charlton Athletic centre-back beyond the end of the season.
Mitchell, 24, arrived at Argyle in August and has quickly become a regular in the side. After featuring once for Charlton in the Carabao Cup at the start of the campaign, he completed a loan switch and has since made 29 starts and two substitute appearances in all competitions.
Cleverley was clear about the value Mitchell brings, both technically and within the dressing room.
“From a technical perspective and what the challenges of this league brings, we know you have got to defend your box first and foremost, and he’s outstanding at that.
“But then from a cultural perspective he’s brilliant. He’s one of the favourites amongst the boys. He’s at the centre of all the foolery.
“We are starting early conversations, we want to make that move permanent, but there is a lot of football to be played for the rest of the season and that’s where the focus is.
“We would love Mitch to be here this time next year. He’s a big part of what we do on and off the pitch.”
Mitchell’s route to Home Park has been shaped by a series of loan spells earlier in his career. While contracted to Millwall, he gained experience with Bromley, Leyton Orient, St Johnstone and Lincoln City before signing permanently for Charlton in the summer of 2024. He went on to make 26 League One starts and five substitute appearances as the south London side secured promotion to the Championship via the play-offs.
His current spell at Argyle represents the fifth different loan move of his career, and it appears to be one that has suited both player and club. Cleverley believes Mitchell’s commitment has stood out, particularly given the challenges often faced by temporary signings.
“He has embraced what the club is. He has really bought into everything Argyle, and that’s important for a loan player.”
With several months of the season remaining, Argyle’s immediate priority remains on-field performance. However, the confirmation that discussions have begun over a permanent deal suggests Mitchell has already done enough to convince the club he could be part of their plans beyond the summer.
Great signing
Alex Mitchell is a top player and a great personality. He’s warmly greeted at Lincoln City when he goes back, and given that they seem to boo everyone who has ever played for them, that’s pretty special. It’s not just about character though; it’s about the player, and Mitchell is a good player.
Is he Championship level? That’s yet to be proven, but he’s definitely top-end League One and that is where Plymouth will see themselves next season, so it makes sense to grab him now. It’s not as if the Addicks, mid-table in the Championship, are envisaging being dragged into the relegation battle.
However, it might pay them to hold off on any decision right now, because if they did go down, Alex Mitchell would likely be a big player for them next season.