Nottingham Forest are poised to make a move for Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney following Boro’s defeat in the Championship play-off final, according to TEAMtalk. The 23-year-old is now anticipated to be a significant departure from the Riverside Stadium after Middlesbrough’s hopes of Premier League promotion were dashed by Hull City.
Hackney endured a frustrating end to the season, missing a portion of the campaign through injury, but he made a return appearance in the play-off final. Despite the disappointing outcome, the midfielder’s reputation continues to grow, having been named Championship Player of the Year. With only one year remaining on his current contract, his future is now subject to considerable speculation.
Forest are preparing for a substantial midfield overhaul, with Elliot Anderson expected to leave in a potentially record-breaking British transfer. The club have long admired Hackney, having previously attempted to sign him in the January transfer window. Sources indicate that Forest were already formulating plans for a summer move irrespective of Middlesbrough’s league status, but the failure to achieve promotion has significantly improved their chances of securing Hackney’s signature.
The England youth international is seen as a suitable replacement for Anderson, possessing the technical ability, ball-carrying skills, and composure in possession that Forest’s recruitment staff value. However, Forest will face competition from several other Premier League clubs, including Brentford, Everton, Fulham, Crystal Palace, Brighton, and Bournemouth, all of whom have scouted Hackney in recent months.
Middlesbrough are reluctant to part with a player developed through their academy, but acknowledge a sale may be unavoidable. The club will reportedly seek a fee of around £25million for Hackney, citing Bournemouth’s acquisition of Alex Scott as a comparable deal for a Championship midfielder of similar quality. While no formal bids have been submitted yet, Forest are positioning themselves strongly and intend to initiate discussions promptly. This move could see Hackney step up to the Premier League and immediately contribute to Forest’s midfield.
