(Credit: Breaking Media)

Josh Edwards

Wed 22 April 2026 12:40, UK

Leeds United remain linked with a move to sign Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough.

Safety isnt secured quite yet for the Whites, but with an eight-point cushion and five games to go, they’re about as close to it as they could be.

And because of that, Leeds will already be putting plans in place for the summer transfer window, with plenty of recruitment to be done.

Among those linked with a move to Elland Road is Hackney, who has had another stellar campaign with Middlesbrough in the Championship.

However, while Leeds’ interest in Hackney is justified, a potential transfer may not be.

Hayden Hackney transfer could be a mistake in waiting for Leeds

Hackney is a very talented player, and there is nothing you can use against him to take that away from him.

The 23-year-old midfielder has 13 goal involvements across all competitions, which is almost double what he achieved last season.

But the issue in regard to a transfer isnt with his quality, but more so the fee that Middlesbrough would likely demand.

A homegrown, young Championship midfielder rarely comes cheap, and despite that quality, it would still pose a significant risk.

It’s unknown what level of funds Leeds will have available this summer, but if a deal for Hackney were to be pursued, it would be fair to assume that a large portion of it would be required for him.

Leeds weeks away from learning Hackney fate

Middlesbrough’s drop off has coincided with the loss of Hackney due to injury, with play-offs now awaiting them almost certainly.

They will take place in May, and the outcome of that may paint a clearer picture as to what the future holds for Hackney.

Should Boro be successful in their promotion attempts, then the chance of an exit will be reduced.

Should they fail in their goal to reach the Premier League, then he will almost certainly be heading out the door.