Ipswich Town plotting double swoop for Middlesbrough stars as Hayden Hackney interest intensifies

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It’s no secret that Ipswich Town want to sign Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough, but EFL Analysis can exclusively reveal that they are also keen on bagging one of his teammates, too.

As Middlesbrough’s star man, it’s hardly surprising that a number of clubs are tracking Hayden Hackney this summer.

There has been a great deal of upheaval at the Riverside already this summer, with Rob Edwards replacing long-standing coach Michael Carrick after another failed season in 2024/25.

Obviously, losing someone of Hackney’s quality would be far from ideal, then. But, losing two players to Ipswich Town would be even worse.

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Ipswich Town want another Middlesbrough star after Hayden Hackney

As per information from our Chief Football Correspondent Graeme Bailey, EFL Analysis can exclusively reveal that Ipswich Town have made enquiries to Boro about Hackney, as well as asking about the availability of his teammate, Dael Fry.

We understand Middlesbrough would be very reluctant to let Fry go this summer. However, as with any player, there is an asking price at which the club may be tempted to sell.

As things stand, we are told no formal bids have been made for either player. We previously revealed Hackney has a £20m price tag, but with Premier League interest, it remains to be seen whether Ipswich can be the ones to win the race for the highly-rated midfielder.

• READ MORE: Middlesbrough close to seven-figure signing they have been ‘following’ for over a year plus Alfie Jones update

Middlesbrough are in for a tough season

Hackney was absent from Middlesbrough’s recent friendly, sparking more speculation that he will be sold this summer. Fans had laughed off Ipswich’s interest previously, but those links are not going away, it seems.

With Rav van den Berg also expected to leave, and an approach for Callum Brittain potentially being hijacked by Derby County, this could be a difficult season for Boro under their new manager.

Adjusting to Edwards’ system will take time, but fans will be hoping he can keep the squad together and get things working as quickly as possible. They’ve not been impressed by Middlesbrough’s pre-season form so far, but there’s still time to turn things around before the season begins.