Middlesbrough will hold out for in the region of £25m for in-demand midfield star Hayden Hackney, according to new reports this week. Newcastle United have been monitoring the England Under-21 star for some time as Eddie Howe and Ross Wilson assess midfield options ahead of the new season.
Newcastle's Midfield Plans
The Magpies have interest in Monaco's Lamine Camara as they consider bolstering their options in the No 6 role, with Sandro Tonali the subject of transfer speculation. Should the Italian leave in what would be a big-money move, Newcastle are thought to want to sign two central midfielders to replace him, with Camara and Hackney near the top of their wishlist.
Hackney's Contract Situation
Teesside-born Hackney only has one year left on his current contract, but that does not appear to have reduced his value in the eyes of Middlesbrough. They accepted a £20m bid from Ipswich Town in 2025, although that deal broke down with Hackney returning to the North East without completing a move last summer.
His form for Kim Hellberg's side last term has meant his value has not dropped, with reports suggesting Boro will hold out for an initial offer of around £20m, with add-ons taking the deal to around £25m.
Competition for Hackney
Everton have already seen two bids dismissed by Boro, and are said to be ready to go back with a third offer which is likely to be a lot closer to their demands. Crystal Palace have also been credited with interest as they anticipate having to replace Adam Wharton in the transfer window.
Hackney's Impressive Season
Hackney had an impressive season for Middlesbrough, helping them to a top-two place before they slipped out of the automatic promotion race late on in the campaign. Boro's late season slump in form coincided with Hackney picking up an injury which saw him miss the final two months of the Championship schedule, with the 23-year-old only able to return as a second-half substitute in the play-off final against Hull City.
Hellberg's side lost 1-0 to the Tigers at Wembley, and Hackney was seen bidding an emotional farewell to the Boro faithful, with an exit expected before they return to pre-season. However, they have already shown that they are willing to hold out for their valuation and won't be persuaded to accept any lower offers.
Hackney won the EFL Championship player of the season award last term, and clocked up six goals and eight assists in 41 appearances for Boro.
