Both Tottenham and Manchester United have been keeping tabs on Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney, who is said to have a market value of £30 million.
Leeds surprises by throwing themselves into the game with full force.
Leeds United are keen on Middlesbrough captain Hayden Hackney who wants to play in the Premier League and then or preferably with his club.
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Leeds United have joined Tottenham and Manchester United in the race to sign one of the Championship’s best midfielders, although the transfer could face hurdles if his team secures promotion to the Premier League.
The Whites secured qualification for the FA Cup fifth round earlier today by beating Birmingham City on penalties at St Andrews, adding to optimism at Ellard Road as they fight for survival in the Premier League.
Daniel Farke’s side have achieved some great results in recent weeks and are six points above the relegation zone. They are looking at potential transfer targets for the summer, and Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney is high on their wish list.
The interest has been reported by journalist Alan Nixon, who states that Leeds ‘want to bring in’ Hackney for next season.
The 23-year-old, who usually plays as a defensive midfielder, has recorded an impressive four goals and six assists in 31 Championship appearances this season.
Hackney, who captains Boro, is a key reason why his team is currently at the top of the Championship table, heading for direct promotion. But Coventry City and Ipswich are not far behind, so a return to the top division for Boro is far from guaranteed yet.
Hackney’s Boro contract runs until 2027, so next summer could be the club’s last chance to bring in a large sum for his services. That said, if they become a Premier League club, they will have a better chance of tying him down for an extension. Nonetheless, Leeds, Tottenham, Manchester United and Everton could initiate a move for him this summer.
Tottenham and Manchester United have a genuine interest in Hackney.
Spurs considered a move for Hackney during the summer, but were ultimately unable to bring him to London as Boro were unwilling to part ways with him in the middle of their promotion battle.
Man Utd are also admirers, with interim manager Michael Carrick eager for a reunion with the player who flourished when he was manager of Boro.
A summery move by the Red Devils could depend on whether Carrick remains in charge. He has done incredibly well since replacing Ruben Amorim, but his long-term future at Old Trafford remains uncertain.
Everton could also be in the race for Hackney. They showed their interest in December, and as Idrissa Gana Gueye has passed his prime at the age of 36, he could be signed as a replacement for him.
Regardless, our sources have indicated that it will cost at least £30 million to sign Hackney.
Whether Leeds, Tottenham, Man Utd or Everton are willing to match that price tag remains to be seen, but if his potential is anything to go by, it could prove to be a bargain in the future.
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Tomorrow, Monday, there is a very important match. Middlesbrough, who are two points above Coventry, travel to The Coventry Building Society Arena ready for top action.
