Bangladesh Premier League champions Bashundhara Kings have completed the signing of Cuba Raul Mitchell, a 19-year-old midfielder who recently featured for Sunderland AFC’s U-21 side in England.

Mitchell, born in Birmingham to a Bangladeshi mother and Jamaican father, officially obtained his Bangladeshi passport on 2 June. 

Although yet to debut internationally, he is seen as a rising talent and has already been included in the preliminary squad for the Bangladesh U-23 team.

Kings finalized his registration on Monday—the deadline for player enlistments ahead of the AFC Challenge League. 

Club president Imrul Hassan confirmed that Mitchell has been signed on a permanent deal and is expected to arrive in Dhaka within a few days. 

He will immediately join the Kings' camp in preparation for their crucial playoff against Syria’s Al-Karamah on 12 August in Doha.

Previously, Mitchell made 25 appearances for Sunderland’s U-18 team, contributing one goal and one assist, and featured 12 times at the U-21 level before his contract expired on 1 July.

Sources within Bashundhara Kings stated that they have been in close contact with Mitchell’s family for some time. 

The club also provided support in processing his passport and documentation, paving the way for his potential national team debut.

Mitchell’s decision to join the Bangladesh Premier League, leaving behind the structured football environment of England, has generated buzz in the local football scene. His motivations, however, may become clearer after his arrival in Dhaka.

SMS/