Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly targeting Middlesbrough’s defensive midfielder Hayden Hackney as they consider a late move in the summer transfer window, according to TBR Football.
The 22-year-old had an impressive season at the core of Michael Carrick’s midfield, making 28 appearances across all competitions. His standout performances, particularly in the EFL Cup semifinal against Chelsea, have attracted attention from top clubs, including Tottenham, who have now expressed their interest.
According to TBR Football, Tottenham have been long-time admirers of the England U21 international, with scouts present at Middlesbrough’s opening EFL Championship matches against Derby County and Swansea.
However, Middlesbrough, under Carrick’s leadership, is determined to keep Hackney, with Carrick emphasizing to the club’s hierarchy that he does not want to lose any key players this summer, as per the report.
Tottenham has been on the lookout for homegrown talent, and it appears they have identified Hackney as a potential option for the number six role.
TBR Football also notes that Tottenham faces strong competition for Hackney’s signature from Premier League rivals including Nottingham Forest, West Ham United, and Wolverhampton Wanderers, who have all scouted him during Middlesbrough’s opening Championship matches.
Hackney still has three years remaining on his contract with Middlesbrough and is valued at €7 million (£5 million) by Transfermarkt. This modest price for a player of his caliber could make him a bargain if Spurs manage to secure the transfer.
Under manager Ange Postecoglou, Tottenham has shifted their transfer strategy, focusing not only on signing top-tier players for the first team but also on acquiring and developing promising young talents for the future.
Some of their notable recent signings include Argentina U20 international Alejo Véliz from Rosario Central, 18-year-old center-back Ashley Phillips from Blackburn Rovers, and a pre-existing agreement to sign Croatia U17 international Luka Vuskovic from Hajduk Split when he turns 18. They have also brought in 18-year-olds Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray, who are now first-team players.
Acquiring Hackney would be another smart move for Spurs, who will hope to develop him into one of the top players in his position.
