Credit: Imago/Manh Tung

Scott Mason

Wed 18 March 2026 20:10, UK

Hayden Hackney emerged as a strong transfer link to Leeds United over the last few months, and the midfielder now outclasses every midfielder in three metrics.

A move for the Englishman could depend on both Leeds’ and Middlesbrough’s league status. If the Whites are relegated, Hackney may opt against a move to Elland Road.

Additionally, if Boro gets promoted, he may look to stay at Riverside Stadium for at least next season.

However, after this latest stat reveal about the 23-year-old, Farke will surely push harder to bring Hackney to Leeds.

Which metrics does Hayden Hackey rank top for?

Hackney is having an excellent season for Middlesbrough, who are currently sitting in second in the Championship.

The Boro academy graduate will be hoping to bring the TS3 side back into the top flight, and his performances have certainly helped.

His influence for the North Yorkshire outfit has now been made even clearer. Across every league in world football, no midfielder has more touches, short passes, or progressive carries.

Additionally, according to Sofascore, Hackney is rated as the eighth-best player in the Championship with an average rating of 7.23.

The Middlesbrough player has also produced more key passes (83) than any other player in England’s second tier.

It is no wonder Hackney emerged as a priority for Leeds in the summer, but these stats will surely make Farke push even more to bring him to LS11.

Leeds may need to break their record signing to seal Hayden Hackney transfer

Last summer, Middlesbrough agreed a deal with Ipswich Town to sell Hackney for £20million, however, the midfielder rejected the move.

Now, after his displays for Boro this season, his club will likely seek much more than that total. Reports shared that the Riverside outfit are seeking over £30m.

As it stands, Leeds’ most expensive purchase stands at £35.5m when they brought Georginio Rutter to Elland Road.

With multiple clubs likely to try to snap up Hackney, there could ultimately be a bidding war for the Englishman, and the total could rise above Leeds’ record arrival.

It will be interesting to see how ambitious the 49ers are if a move for Hackney becomes a possibility.