Credit: Imago/Manh Tung

Jacob Raw

Wed 13 May 2026 17:31, UK

Hayden Hackney appears to have waved his final goodbye to Middlesbrough fans ahead of a possible summer move to Leeds United.

Boro were knocked out of the Championship play-off semi-finals by Southampton on Tuesday, bringing an unforgettable Championship saga to an end.

Kim Hellberg’s side have been victims of Spygate 2.0 in the past few weeks, adding extra pressure on the Reds to perform without their injured Championship Player of the Season winner, Hackney.

Leeds are said to be interested in bringing Hackney to Elland Road this summer, along with a host of other Premier League clubs.

Following full-time scenes at Saint Mary’s Stadium, it looks like Hackney has said his goodbyes to Middlesbrough fans ahead of a summer exit.

Video emerges of possible Hayden Hackney farewell amid Leeds interest

Leeds have been strongly linked with Hackney since the winter window, as there was always an expectation on Teesside that this season would be his last with Boro if they failed to achieve promotion.

The Englishman had Boro firmly in the race for the top two before suffering a calf injury, which has since prevented him from featuring ever since.

Leeds want to sign a new midfielder for Daniel Farke this summer, and a move for Middlesbrough’s 23-year-old star could be a smart move to make.

As seen in the video on X below, Hackney was the last Boro player off the field after the loss to Southampton, seemingly accepting that his story with his hometown club is over.

The former youth England international can be seen visibly upset, but Leeds could put a smile on his face by offering him a new home this summer.

his dream is to play Premier League football, and if Farke was to guarantee him a starting spot, it would be a no brainer for all parties.

Hackney’s Boro contract means perfect news for Leeds

Hackney will have 12 months remaining on his Boro contract heading into the summer, which makes Steve Gibson’s decision to sell now a whole lot easier.

There is no reported one-year extension in his contract at the Riverside, which is due to run out in the summer of 2027.

Given his age, nationality, and ability, Hackney’s sale would usually require a fee in the region of £30million.

However, reports have suggested that Crystal Palace will start the bidding war for the youngster at £12m, which is perfect for Leeds’ budget.