Middlesbrough expert tells Boro what to do with ‘vital’ Hayden Hackney as West Ham target £20m star

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Premier League giants West Ham United have lodged interest in Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney amid the summer transfer window.

After the 2024/25 Championship ended in a disappointing 10th-place finish for Middlesbrough, head coach Michael Carrick was sacked.

Boro’s search for a new head coach has seen Steve Cooper, Danny Rohl and Rob Edwards whittled down to the final three candidates.

Whichever head coach is appointed by the Boro hierarchy could be without the club’s star man next season, as Hayden Hackney is likely to leave Middlesbrough this summer after the club failed in their top-six push.

Amid the Premier League interest in the midfield starlet’s services, one Boro expert has voiced his strong opinion on the matter.

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Middlesbrough expert has say as West Ham target £20m Hayden Hackney

Before the summer transfer window shut for the week-long break, reports emerged that Hackney was part of the Championship duo targeted by West Ham, alongside Sheffield United ace Sydie Peck.

Hammers boss Graham Potter is looking to revamp the squad for his first full season in charge at the London outfit, with the Boro academy graduate emerging as a target for the top flight side.

However, EFL Analysis understands that Middlesbrough would like the fee for Hackney to be in the region of £20 million, given he is a homegrown star with vast potential.

Amid the growing interest from West Ham over Hackney, a former Boro reporter of 26 seasons has voiced his concerns.

Via TeessideLive, Eric Paylor said: “Hang on to Hayden Hackney!

“If Middlesbrough can keep hold of their prized homegrown midfielder for at least another season it can make a huge difference to their immediate future.

“What a vital cog he is in making the Boro tick. At the same time he is worth a great deal of money in the transfer market. Money that can make a big difference to a club like Boro.

“Surely it might be a good idea to try to tempt Hayden to stay with an improved salary offer should a big club come calling.

“Boro can afford only what they can afford of course, but Hackney is one of the most important players in the team.”

Unfortunately for the Teesside faithful, Hackney is not the only Boro star who could depart the club this summer.

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Middlesbrough Hayden Hackney decision could define Boro’s 25/26 season

Despite falling away from a play-off place, Boro stars, as well as Hackney, have been linked with moves away from the Riverside this summer.

Central defender Rav van den Berg could leave Boro this summer, despite his campaign being blighted by injuries.

While away on international duty for Holland, Van den Berg has discussed transfer interest, confirming his agent has been in contact with clubs interested in his signature.

Away from van den Berg, Finn Azaz has been scouted by Crystal Palace, given his impressive 12-goal return from attacking midfield for Boro this season.

Uncertainty over the next head coach appointment, and the potential departure of three crucial stars has cast doubt over Boro’s prospects for next term.

Under sporting director Kieran Scott, Boro have exhibited excellent recruitment and will back themselves to do so once again with any potential Hackney replacements.

However, with Hackney being the jewel in the club’s crown, Boro’s top-six aspirations for next season will take a monumental dent before the season has even begun if the England under-21 international departs for West Ham this summer.