Demetri Mitchell, a former youth player for Manchester United, revealed that he utilized the AI platform ChatGPT during his negotiations for a transfer to League One club Leyton Orient, referring to the technology as his “best agent to date.”
Starting his career at Old Trafford, Mitchell made one league appearance for the club before moving on to teams like Hearts, Blackpool, Hibernian, and Exeter City.
This summer, the 28-year-old made the move to Orient on a free transfer, notably without the assistance of an agent, which is quite uncommon in professional football.
“When they [Leyton Orient] presented their offer, I began using ChatGPT to figure out how to negotiate and what I should say,” Mitchell shared on the From My Left podcast.
“I had a lot to consider last season, like moving to London, the cost of living, and my partner and child relocating with me. I believed I was worth slightly more, but I didn’t want to come across as overly demanding.”
“Since I wasn’t using an agent, I could essentially pocket what would have been the agent’s fee as a signing bonus. An agent might have secured me a couple hundred more, but after their cut, it wouldn’t have made much difference.”
Mitchell also voiced his concerns regarding agents in football, stating that opportunities for representation in lower leagues are often lackluster.
“There are three types of agents,” he explained.
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“There are agents who work for an agency on salary, then those who work for large agencies hunting for young talent. Once you no longer fit that mold, they lose interest.”
“Lastly, you have those agents with their own agencies, who are primarily focused on making money quickly, getting players moved anywhere anytime.”
“Finding a good agent in the lower leagues is a challenge, as the available options often fall short.”
Mitchell has played for various England youth teams from Under-16 to Under-20 levels and was included in the preliminary 60-man squad for Jamaica ahead of the 2025 Gold Cup.
This season, he has made eight appearances for Brisbane Road but is still seeking his first goal for the club.