Newcastle United could be set to appoint Johan Lager as he leaves Hammarby

Newcastle United appear close to securing the services of highly-regarded Swedish sports director Johan Lager following his departure from Hammarby, according to reports emerging from Scandinavia.

The 42-year-old executive, who spent fifteen years with the Stockholm-based club including seven as sporting director, has confirmed his readiness for a new challenge after building an impressive reputation in Nordic football circles.

While Lager’s exact role at St James’ Park remains unspecified, his extensive background in women’s football makes the Magpies’ female side the most probable destination.

However, Newcastle’s recent expansion across all football operations leaves open the possibility of a broader remit for the Swedish talent spotter, whose recruitment acumen could benefit multiple departments within the growing organization.

Lager’s comments to FotbollDirekt reveal an executive eager to continue his career progression without delay: “My ambition isn’t to remain idle for long, so I’ll likely take on a new position quite soon.

I’m currently open to opportunities without restrictions, as my children are older now, creating a new situation for me.” These remarks suggest a professional prepared for international relocation, with Newcastle’s ambitious project potentially offering the perfect next step.

The Swedish outlet reports that preliminary contact has already occurred between Newcastle and Lager’s representatives, though the director’s specific response to the Magpies’ interest remains undisclosed.

Given Lager’s cooperative engagement with journalists during his Hammarby exit announcement, the lack of clarity surrounding his intentions appears somewhat surprising to industry observers.

Lager’s potential arrival would continue Newcastle’s strategic strengthening of backroom operations following the Saudi-backed takeover. His proven track record in talent identification and squad building aligns with the club’s data-driven approach to recruitment, while his experience developing Hammarby’s women’s team could prove invaluable as Newcastle aim to elevate their female side’s competitiveness in the FA Women’s Super League.

The move would also represent another step in Newcastle’s internationalization, adding Scandinavian expertise to a technical staff already drawing knowledge from across Europe.

Lager’s impending decision comes at a pivotal moment for the Magpies’ long-term planning, with the summer transfer window offering the first real opportunity to reshape squads across both men’s and women’s teams under any new structural appointments.

As Newcastle continue building infrastructure to match their on-field ambitions, Lager’s anticipated appointment signals the club’s commitment to strengthening all football operations – not just the high-profile men’s first team.

His expected arrival would complete a significant coup for the Magpies’ recruitment network, adding another layer of expertise to their growing sporting department.