West Ham United are reportedly considering a January swoop for Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, one of the Championship’s most in-demand young talents. The 23-year-old has been in outstanding form this season, catching the eye of scouts from the London Stadium as the Hammers look to bolster a midfield that has struggled in the Premier League. […]
West Ham United are reportedly considering a January swoop for Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, one of the Championship’s most in-demand young talents. The 23-year-old has been in outstanding form this season, catching the eye of scouts from the London Stadium as the Hammers look to bolster a midfield that has struggled in the Premier League.
Hackney has been a standout for Middlesbrough this season, making 29 appearances across all competitions. His performances have impressed even against Premier League opposition, including Boro’s 3-1 FA Cup defeat to Fulham. Scouts have described him as a “special player” and a “true controller” of games, while former manager Neil Warnock believes he could “go to the very top.” Hackney has also shown leadership qualities, recently captaining Middlesbrough in several matches.
West Ham are far from alone in their interest. Tottenham Hotspur, Crystal Palace, and Aston Villa have all reportedly sent scouts to watch Hackney in action. Last summer, Ipswich Town offered £20 million for the midfielder, but he chose to remain at his boyhood club while waiting for a Premier League move. His consistent form this season has only heightened interest from clubs at the top level.
Hackney is contracted at Middlesbrough until 2027, with the club reportedly valuing him around £30 million. While a January transfer seems unlikely, Premier League scouts are expected to continue monitoring him. Middlesbrough are determined to retain their key players as they push for promotion, with Hackney central to their plans.
The Championship side currently sit second in the table under Swedish head coach Kim Hellberg. Losing Hackney mid-season would be a major setback. Hellberg has praised the midfielder’s ability and character, saying:
“Hayden is a top player in every aspect of the game. The most impressive thing is how he is as a person. I think he wants to stay. I don’t think he’s going anywhere.”
For the Hammers, signing Hackney could provide a boost to a struggling squad. However, moving from a promotion-chasing team to a side battling relegation would be a gamble. Any move is more likely in the summer, when Middlesbrough can negotiate a significant fee and Hackney can make a step up to the Premier League under the right circumstances.
Hayden Hackney remains one of the most highly rated midfielders outside the Premier League. Middlesbrough will aim to keep him until the end of the season to strengthen their promotion push, while Premier League clubs continue to monitor his progress and wait for the right moment to make a move.
