Former Lincoln City defender Alex Mitchell has completed a permanent move to Plymouth Argyle after starring during a season-long loan at Home Park.
The 24-year-old has joined the Pilgrims from Charlton Athletic for an undisclosed fee, signing a three-year contract which remains subject to EFL approval.
Mitchell made 47 appearances and scored three goals for Plymouth during the 2025/26 campaign, finishing the season as the club’s Player of the Year. His performances made him a firm favourite with Argyle supporters, who had been calling for the defender to return following the end of his loan.
Plymouth have now secured his signature on a permanent basis, bringing an end to his two-year stay with Charlton.
Mitchell came through Millwall’s academy before heading out on loan in search of senior experience. He spent time with Bromley in 2021 and then stepped into the EFL with Leyton Orient, making 26 league appearances during the 2021/22 season. A move to St Johnstone followed, giving him regular experience in the Scottish Premiership. He ended the 2022/23 campaign as the club’s Young Player of the Year before joining us on a season-long loan in August 2023.
It did not take long for Mitchell to become a popular figure at Sincil Bank. He made his debut from the bench during a 3-0 victory against Blackpool on 26 August and soon established himself on the right of a back three, while also appearing in a central pairing when required.
Strong in the duel and comfortable enough in possession, Mitchell became an important part of the side that mounted an unexpected challenge for the League One play-offs. His first Imps goal came away at Fleetwood Town on 21 October, when his second-half header secured a 1-0 victory.
His performances that month also earned him our Player of the Month award, and he went on to finish the season with 41 appearances and one goal in all competitions.
Mitchell’s commitment on the pitch was a major part of his popularity with supporters, although standing on a table in the Shakespeare beer garden after the final-day defeat against Portsmouth, waving a red flare in the air, probably helped as well.
He returned to Millwall at the end of his loan before joining Charlton on a permanent three-year deal in June 2024. Mitchell made 31 league appearances and scored twice during his first season at The Valley, helping the Addicks win promotion through the League One play-offs.
He was allowed to join Plymouth on loan in August 2025 and quickly became a central figure at Home Park. Along with being named Argyle’s Player of the Season, he collected their Player of the Month awards in December and March.
Head coach Tom Cleverley believes Mitchell’s influence away from the pitch is just as important as his defensive performances.
“I’m so happy that we’ve got Mitch back with us,” said Cleverley. “He was superb for us last season, and everyone knows what a huge presence he is, both in the defence, and off the field.
“You need characters like him in a group if you are to be successful. What is also so nice is his desire to return. He clearly enjoyed playing in green and white, and for him to want to come back is very pleasing to us.”
Director of Football Derek Adams added that Argyle had been keen to bring Mitchell back from the moment his loan spell came to an end.
“We knew at the end of last season that we wanted to bring Alex back to Home Park, and as soon as we were in a position that we could make it happen, we moved quickly.
“I know this signing will be very popular with the Green Army, which is always a positive thing. He is already a good, strong defender, and at 24 is going to continue to develop. It’s great to have him back.”
Mitchell only spent one season with us, but his performances and personality ensured he made a lasting impression. He has continued to progress since leaving Sincil Bank and now has the opportunity to establish himself at a club where he is already highly regarded.
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