Credit: Imago

Declan Carr

Tue 19 May 2026 20:10, UK

Leeds United will have wanted Southampton to get away with their ‘Spygate’ antics.

The Saints were caught observing Middlesbrough training ahead of their playoff semi-final, and they have reportedly spied on other clubs too.

The South coast side has been kicked out of the playoffs, with the independent commission choosing the harshest punishment to instate Middlesbrough into the Wembley showcase.

That is the worst-case scenario for the Whites, as it makes their attempts to sign Hayden Hackney in the summer much harder.

Leeds would have liked Southampton to get a slap on the wrist, rather than the verdict that they have actually received.

Why Spygate might affect Leeds’ pursuit of Hackney

Hackney has been on Leeds’ radar for a significant period, and they are believed to be eyeing an approach this summer.

With the Teeside outfit put into the final, if they end up getting promoted to the Premier League, that would make the Peacocks’ attempts to sign the midfielder more difficult.

The Riverside Stadium side would hold all of the cards if they were in the top flight, so the transfer impact of the commission’s decision is clear, and leaves the LS11 side surely reeling.

What are the implications for Leeds?

Leeds were hoping to complete a bargain transfer for the 23-year-old, as he was understood to be available for as little as £12million, if Boro remained in the Championship.

Given his age, profile and the hype surrounding him, a figure of £30m would usually be expected, but his current contract expires in 2027, which would have lowered the price significantly for interested parties.

However, if Kim Hellberg’s side are promoted, he may choose to agree to fresh terms and try to keep them at the elite level, rather than trying to secure a move away from the North East.

Daniel Farke is keen for midfield additions, and the second-tier star fits the bill, but he may be forced to look elsewhere after the commission gave Boro a favourable outcome, and put them back in the playoffs.

We should find out in the near future, so the Whites can start planning for whether they have a chance of signing the England Under-21 international or have to move on to alternative targets.