(Credit: Breaking Media)

Josh Edwards

Sun 24 May 2026 10:10, UK

Leeds United have been linked with a move to sign Hayden Hackney this summer.

The Whites will have two meetings with Hull City in the Premier League next season after Oli McBurnie scored the winning goal in Saturday’s play-off final.

Meanwhile, Middlesbrough will be forced for another season in the Championship, which many will see as justice somewhat served, given that they failed to win either leg of their semi-final.

Leeds are already in line to benefit from a potential Joe Gelhardt sale after the role he’s played for the Tigers.

However, they may also be in line to benefit from Hackney’s arrival at Elland Road, given past reports.

Could Hayden Hackney be a Leeds player this summer?

Leeds have plenty of business to do this summer if they are to cement their spot in the Premier League, and adding more depth to their midfield will be a key part of that.

Hackney has been heavily linked with a move to Elland Road, and had Boro achieved promotion, the chances of a deal would have been slim.

A chance to represent his boyhood club in the Premier League may have been too good to turn down, though the same feeling may surface about a move to the top flight after they missed out on promotion.

Hackney is almost certain to move on from Middlesbrough this summer, and given his lack of involvement in the World Cup, a deal may happen sooner rather than later, with Leeds among the interested parties.

Man United could scupper Leeds transfer plans

It isn’t just Leeds who have been mooted with an interest in the midfielder, and the list of suitors is only likely to grow.

Manchester United have also been named as one of the interested clubs, and the Michael Carrick connection may play a part.

Hackney played his best football under the former Old Trafford midfielder, and the chance to replicate that, and in the Champions League, may prove to be too good an opportunity to turn down.