Middlesbrough's Hayden Hackney with his arms in the air playing in the Championship
Credit: Imago
James Barker
Sun 15 February 2026 8:34, UK
Leeds are reportedly plotting a summer transfer swoop for Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney.
According to a report from journalist Alan Nixon via his Patreon account on Sunday, Leeds are preparing to make a ‘massive’ move for Hackney.
Nixon reports that Elland Road chiefs are big admirers of the Middlesbrough midfielder, and have him earmarked as a priority signing in the summer so long as they stay in the Premier League.
It’s stated that any deal will depend upon whether Boro win promotion to the top flight or not, however, as Hackney,23, could then decide that he’s waited long enough for a shot at Premier League football.
Nixon claims that whilst Hackney does have his admirers at other clubs, few bids have tempted Boro to sell their captain, Leeds could move to the front of the queue if the circumstances align, and they have the cash too.
More to follow…