The latest transfer claim regarding Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney as Nottingham Forest prepare to ‘move quickly’
Nottingham Forest are reportedly prepared to move quickly for Hayden Hackney after Middlesbrough’s Championship play-off final heartbreak.
The 23-year-old is widely expected to depart the Riverside this summer having stood out in the Championship over a number of seasons.
A move to the top flight appears to be the next logical step for the midfielder, who reportedly has no shortage of admirers both in England and overseas.
Hayden Hackney was visibly emotional after Middlesbrough's Championship play-off final loss to Hull City.placeholder image
Hayden Hackney was visibly emotional after Middlesbrough's Championship play-off final loss to Hull City. | Julian Finney/Getty Images
Hayden Hackney interest latest
Forest are among those to have been strongly linked and according to TEAMtalk, they want to move quickly to sign Hackney ahead of rivals.
He is said to have been identified as an ideal replacement for Elliot Anderson, who Forest are reportedly at risk of losing to Manchester City. Forest are thought to have been advancing with plans to strike a deal for Hackney before Middlesbrough’s play-off fate was sealed.
Middlesbrough are believed to want a fee close to £25m for their most coveted asset, who has represented both England and Scotland at youth level. However, their stance may be weakened by the fact Hackney is approaching the final year of his contract.
Then again, interest from rivals could allow Middlesbrough to drive up Hackney’s valuation. The report has claimed he has been the subject of scouting by Everton, Tottenham Hotspur, Fulham, Brentford, AFC Bournemouth, Crystal Palace and Brighton & Hove Albion.
Hayden Hackney has made 154 appearances for Middlesbrough since graduating from the club's academy.placeholder image
Hayden Hackney has made 154 appearances for Middlesbrough since graduating from the club's academy. | Yui Mok/PA Wire
Hayden Hackney departure expected
The loss of Hackney would undoubtedly be a hammer blow for Middlesbrough, although it would be one fans have been expecting.
Promotion may well have given Boro a chance to holding on to the midfielder, but an exit felt inevitable when the whistle blew in their play-off final loss to Hull City.