Middlesbrough are set to usher in a new era with the imminent appointment of Kim Hellberg as head coach — and his arrival could open the door for a reunion with one of Sweden’s brightest young prospects, Adrian Lahdo.
Kim Hellberg, 37, is expected to be confirmed as Boro’s new boss after reportedly turning down interest from Swansea City. His appointment follows the shock departure of Rob Edwards and marks the start of a new project at the Riverside Stadium.
With any managerial change, attention quickly turns to potential transfer reunions, and in Hellberg’s case, Hammarby’s teenage sensation Lahdo could be a name to watch.
Lahdo has already established himself in the Allsvenskan at the age of 17. After joining Hammarby at the age of five, the midfielder made his senior debut under Hellberg in October 2024. He went on to play in 15 games in 2025, tallying three goals and three assists.
Lahdo, who started out as a defensive midfielder, has developed into a flexible attacking player who can play out wide or centrally. His 2025 stats, which include an 88.5% passing accuracy, 0.68 assists per 90 minutes, 2.95 chances created per 90 (the most in his position), and a 70% aerial duel success rate, highlight his potential.
Hammarby secured the youngster on a long-term contract last summer, tying him down until 2027 after fending off interest from Juventus and Feyenoord. Any move, therefore, would likely demand a substantial offer.
Still, Middlesbrough may see Lahdo as an achievable target. Under head of football Kieran Scott, the Teessiders have increasingly explored Europe’s developing markets, with successful signings such as Rav van den Berg, Emmanuel Latte Lath, Lukas Engel, and Delano Burgzorg.
The fact that Boro outbid more prestigious teams for the services of the Dutch defender in 2023—outbidding Roma, Dortmund, and AC Milan—is proof of that.
