Having delivered a series of impressive performances last season, it's hardly surprising that Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney has caught the eye of several high-profile suitors.
A contingent of Premier League clubs are currently battling to secure the services of the young schemer, who has flourished since rising through the ranks of Boro's academy.
A successful season-long loan at Scunthorpe United hardened him to the rough and tumble of the senior game, but Hackney has now shown he has the technical quality to compete at the very top level.
Although often operating as an anchorman, the 23-year-old also has the ability to make a decisive contribution in the final third.
He registered five goals and eight assists during the 2025/26 campaign, helping to propel Middlesbrough to a fifth-place finish.
Hackney has recently been nursing a groin issue, but made a return to action during the second half of last weekend’s Championship play-off final, which Boro lost 1-0 to Hull City.
The Teessiders clearly missed Hackney's presence in the middle of the park during his absence, winning just two of the 10 league fixtures they were forced to play without him.
So, who might put a bid in for Hackney this summer?
Brighton & Hove Albion
Having secured qualification for the Conference League on the final day of the season in dramatic circumstances, Brighton will now need to bolster their squad to battle on both domestic and continental fronts.
Hackney would add some much-needed steel to the Seagulls' midfield, an area which was strengthened by the return of club legend Pascal Gross in January.
Nottingham Forest
Despite reaching the semi-final stage of the Europa League, Nottingham Forest will undoubtedly be disappointed with the outcome of last season's efforts.
They may, therefore, look to recruit heavily in several areas including the midfield, although they already have Ryan Yates and Ibrahim Sangare to deploy in the pivot position.
The almost certain departure of England international Elliot Anderson will leave a gap that Hackney might just fit into perfectly.
Crystal Palace
Following their sensational Conference League final triumph in midweek, Crystal Palace are currently soaring.
However, they may come down to earth with a bump when the reality of coach Oliver Glasner's exit kicks in.
As a new manager has yet to be announced, it's difficult to know how Palace's summer recruitment will unfold, however, with cash available and a new sense of optimism pervading Selhurst Park, a big-money move for Hackney certainly isn't out of the question.
Newcastle United
Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe spent the best part of four years as a Championship manager, so is acutely aware of the talent the second-tier can offer.
The former Bournemouth manager is currently under significant pressure thanks to an underwhelming season at St. James' Park, but may still get a decent transfer kitty to spend.
Newcastle's proximity to Middlesbrough may give them an advantage in the race for Hackney's signature.
Tottenham Hotspur
Following a second consecutive tumultuous campaign, Spurs are desperate to wipe the slate clean.
Focusing on developing young homegrown players may help them to achieve this objective, as the club attempts to reduce a colossal wage bill largely caused by an influx of expensive overseas signings.
In this respect, Hackney would fit the bill perfectly for the Lilywhites.
Can Middlesbrough go again?
Despite the anguish of losing out on promotion via the play-offs, Middlesbrough appear to have a decent chance of returning to the Premier League for the 2027/28 campaign.
The Teessiders are currently priced at 7/2 to go up next season, while most expect Kim Hellberg's men to challenge for the Championship title and they are 12/1 to be crowned champions.
This article was written by a partner sports writer via Spotlight Sports Group. All odds displayed on this page were correct at the time of writing and are subject to withdrawal or change at any time.
