Sunderland Could Make A Move For This Championship Midfielder: What Will He Add To Le Bris’ Team? | OneFootball

In a recent report, Sunderland Echo stated that Sunderland could make a move for Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney this summer. It has been claimed that the Black Cats could move in for the English midfield ace this off-season.

Hackney’s Impressive Campaign In The EFL Championship

Hackney managed to put in a string of impressive performances at the heart of Middlesbrough’s midfield in the previous campaign. The 23-year-old scored six times and grabbed eight assists in 41 matches for the English outfit last season on all fronts.

The English talent is currently among the most talented midfielders in the EFL Championship. Therefore, Sunderland would do well to get a deal done for him this summer.

Hackney’s current contract at the Riverside Stadium will run out at the end of next season, which could open the door for the Black Cats to sign him on a cut-price deal in this transfer window.

LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 08: Hayden Hackney of Middlesbrough celebrates after he scores his sides third goal during the Sky Bet Championship match between Queens Park Rangers and Middlesbrough at Loftus Road on March 08, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

What Will Hackney Add To Sunderland Boss Regis Le Bris’ Team?

Hackney is a solid tackler of the ball and can read the danger well to secure the ball back for his team inside his half. He doesn’t mind clearing his lines when required and can shoot the ball with venom from long range.

The English sensation can even engineer some decent chances for his teammates to score and is an energetic runner with the ball. Hackney mainly operates as a holding midfielder but can also play as a defensive midfielder or as an attacking midfielder if told to do so by his manager. However, only time will tell whether he can maintain his good form in the Premier League.

Hackney would add more energy and dynamism to Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris’ midfield. He is good enough to compete for a regular first-team spot at the Wearside club in the coming seasons.

At 23, Hackney has his best years ahead of him, which makes him a worthy target for the Black Cats to pursue in this summer transfer window. However, Le Bris has to give him some time to adjust to life at the Stadium of Light before he can get the best out of the gifted playmaker in top-flight football.