Here's Why Middlesbrough Won't Be Selling Hayden Hackney to Leeds in Summer Transfer Window

Middlesbrough have no intention of selling star midfielder Hayden Hackney to local rivals Leeds United during the upcoming summer transfer window, despite strong interest from the Elland Road club.

Hackney, a 23-year-old box-to-box talent, has been pivotal for Michael Carrick's side, captaining the team and contributing 4 goals and 6 assists in 31 Championship appearances this season. His performances have helped Middlesbrough top the Championship table, though promotion is not yet secured with challengers like Coventry and Ipswich close behind.^[3]

Leeds, battling relegation but eyeing squad bolstering under Daniel Farke, view Hackney as a priority target to add control, creativity, and drive in midfield. Journalist Alan Nixon reports Leeds are prepared to pursue the £30m-£35m-rated star, whose contract runs until 2027, making this summer potentially Middlesbrough's last big chance for a fee—unless promotion allows a new deal.^[2][3][6]

However, Boro's stance is firm: they rejected a £20m (€24m) bid from Ipswich in August 2025, which Hackney turned down anyway, and have since upped their asking price to around £30m (€35m) amid interest from Manchester United, Tottenham, and Everton. Man Utd's monitoring adds a twist, especially with manager Michael Carrick's Middlesbrough connections, but Boro prioritize keeping their academy product for a promotion push.^[1][3][4][5]

Sources indicate Middlesbrough demand at least £30m, a figure some suitors found steep in January 2026, but Hackney's rising value—entering his peak years—makes him too valuable to lose to rivals. Leeds may need to look elsewhere or pay a premium, but Boro's promotion ambitions and contract security mean Hackney stays put.^[4]

With the summer window opening June 2026, expect intense competition, but Middlesbrough's resolve against a Leeds sale remains unbreakable.^[7]

(Word count: 298)