Credit: Breaking Media/Manh Tung

Scott Mason

Fri 29 May 2026 16:10, UK

Leeds United will be gearing up for this summer’s transfer plans, with the battle to sign Hayden Hackney one of their more difficult deals to pull off.

The Championship Player of the Year has been linked with numerous Premier League sides, with the Whites firmly in that mix.

His impressive campaign in the second-tier led to guiding Middlesbrough into the play-off final, but Boro’s failure to get promoted could now be Daniel Farke’s gain.

The German has spoken about creating new goals and ambitions at Elland Road, and that will include gaining places in the Premier League.

Signing one of the Championship’s most talented midfielders would be a step in the right direction, and ahead of Leeds’ summer window, they have learnt that Hackney could be available at a discount.

What is the latest on Hayden Hackney’s price?

Last summer Middlesbrough accepted a £20million offer from Ipswich Town for the services of Hackney, but in the end, the Englishman opted to stay at Riverside to help them push for promotion.

After having his best season to date, his options for a transfer away have widened, with a Premier League switch a real distinct possibility.

Leeds have previously been linked with Hackney, and that interest still remains ahead of a possible move to Elland Road.

According to The Chronicle, Middlesbrough’s asking price will drop from their original £25m winter window asking price this summer.

With Leeds mentioned as a potential suitor for the Englishman, the report shares that Hackney “should cost less than the £25m tag on his shoulders last January.”

Bids for Hackney were touted to start at £12m, but it is unlikely that any approaches at that price tag are to be accepted.

Nonetheless, for a fee closer to £18m to £20m, the Whites have a no-brainer decision but to make their move for the 23-year-old.

Boro will also have to consider the fact that Hackney is entering the final year of his contract too.

How would Hayden Hackney adapt to the Premier League?

There is unquestionably a significant quality difference from the Championship to the Premier League, but those who work with Hackney are in no doubt over his ability to transition.

Speaking back in February, Middlesbrough manager Kim Hellberg hailed the midfield ace as an “unbelievable football player” before going on to say he could be playing for many Premier League sides.

He stated: “He’s too good to be here — if you can say that in a positive way — as could be top in most of the Premier League teams, because that’s the quality he has.”

After failing to earn promotion with the Teesiders, the Englishman could be swayed about the chance to feature in the top flight.

Additionally, he will have hopes of playing for England, and playing in the Championship will not allow that dream to be achieved.