Graham Potter looking disappointed in the circular inert, with Bob Mortimer
Credit: Imago/ BBC One
Henry Green
Tue 2 September 2025 17:10, UK
West Ham missed out on a number of targets in a gruelling summer transfer window.
On deadline day, West Ham failed to sign Chelsea’s Axel Disasi, who decided to reject a loan move in order to stay at Stamford Bridge.
Big names such as Charlie Cresswell and Manuel Akanji were also linked, but Graham Potter landed upon Brighton defender Igor Julio.
Midfield was a key part of the pitch that the Hammers needed to strengthen, but again, they couldn’t close deals on multiple targets.
Graham Potter looks curiously in the West Ham dugout.
Credit: Imago
Bob Mortimer reacts as Hayden Hackney stays at Middlesbrough
Edson Alvarez’s loan move to Fenerbahce left the Irons short in midfield going into the final weeks of the transfer window.
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Mateus Fernandes’ £40million move from Southampton relieved issues, but there is still the overwhelming feeling that the Hammers are still lacking creativity.
Middlesbrough’s Hayden Hackney would have heeded any concerns and added some much-needed depth in midfield.
West Ham made multiple approaches for £25million-rated Hackney, but Boro representatives were adamant that they would keep their star midfielder.
Progressive passes 433 (Most in Europe)
Passes into final third 356 (Second most in Europe)
Hackney’s passing stats during the 2024/25 season
Supporters of Boro have been buzzing with the news that Hackney is staying on Teesside, including comedian Bob Mortimer.
The boyhood Middlesbrough fan is known on television for his wit, and that has transitioned his comedy over into his support for football.
After it was confirmed that Hackney was staying, Mortimer posted an image of the youngster on his Instagram captioned: “YOU BEAUTY!!”.
Hayden Hackney destined for England
Hackney was a key player for England’s under-21s side, which won the UEFA European Championships in the summer.
Hayden Hackney stats last season compared to fellow Championship midfielders (per 90):
Progressive actions: 0.98 – 1st
Progressive carries: 1 – 1st
Accelerations: 1st
Passes completed: 0.98 – 2nd
Passes into the penalty box: 0.95 – 2nd
Middlesbrough supporters were left surprised that top Premier League sides weren’t in for the midfielder, and the Hammers will regret not trying harder to sign the 23-year-old.
Hackney is destined for a big-money move to a top-flight side and will no doubt be an England regular in the next five years.
He has already bagged a goal and an assist so far this season and has helped them to the top of the Championship.
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