Leeds United Are In Pole Position To Sign This Championship Midfielder: Should Farke Move In For Him? | OneFootball

In a recent report, MOT Leeds News claimed that Leeds United are in pole position to sign Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney. It has been mentioned that the Whites have identified the English talent as a target for the summer transfer window.

Hackney’s Impressive Form In English Football

Hackney has enjoyed a great campaign at the English club as he has produced a run of eye-catching displays for them in the middle of the park. The 23-year-old has found the back of the net six times and earned eight assists in 40 appearances for Middlesbrough this season across various competitions.

The English sensation is currently among the best central midfielders in the EFL Championship. However, the jury is still out on whether he can replicate his good form in the Premier League.

His current contract at Middlesbrough will expire in the summer of 2027, which could open the door for the Whites to sign him on a cut-price deal this off-season.

MIDDLESBROUGH, ENGLAND – MARCH 11: Hayden Hackney of Middlesbrough in action during the Sky Bet Championship match between Middlesbrough and Charlton Athletic at Riverside Stadium on March 11, 2026 in Middlesbrough, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Should Leeds United Boss Daniel Farke Move In For Hackney?

Hackney is a good dribbler with the ball at his feet and has got the vision to create some inviting chances in the final third. He can shoot the ball with power and precision from long range and has done well to chip in by scoring and creating his fair share of goals from midfield.

The English talent mainly operates as a defensive midfielder, but can also serve as a box-to-box midfielder or play in the number ten position if needed. However, there are some question marks over whether he can adapt to the physical side and high intensity of the Premier League if the Whites manage to bring him on board this summer.

We can expect Hackney to bring more quality and depth to Leeds boss Daniel Farke’s midfield department. He has what it takes to compete for a regular first-team spot at Elland Road next season.

At 23, Hackney will only improve with each year, so Leeds would be wise to move in for him at the end of this campaign. However, Farke has to give him some time to adjust to life at the West Yorkshire club before he can get the best out of the player.