Crystal Palace have emerged as frontrunners in the race to sign Middlesbrough’s highly-rated midfielder Hayden Hackney, a 23-year-old England U21 international who has caught the attention of several Premier League clubs. With a reputation for identifying and nurturing Championship talent, Palace are poised to continue their successful recruitment strategy, eyeing Hackney as a potential long-term replacement for key midfielders and a vital addition to their squad.
A Rising Star in the Championship
Hayden Hackney, a product of Middlesbrough’s esteemed academy, has established himself as one of the Championship’s standout midfielders. Since breaking into the first team in October 2022, the Redcar-born player has made over 100 league appearances for Boro, showcasing his versatility, vision, and composure in the heart of midfield. In the 2024/25 season, Hackney contributed five goals and three assists in 44 appearances, earning him both the Players’ Player of the Year and Supporters’ Player of the Year awards at Middlesbrough. His ability to dictate play, deliver precise passes into the final third, and contribute defensively has made him a talismanic figure for his boyhood club.
A Strategic Fit for Palace
Hackney’s skill set aligns perfectly with Palace’s needs. His ability to control the tempo of games, combined with his defensive tenacity and goal-scoring instincts, makes him an ideal candidate to complement or eventually replace Hughes in the central midfield role alongside Wharton. Palace’s scouts have been impressed by Hackney’s performances, both at club level and during the U21 Euros, where he showcased his ability to perform under pressure.
Palace’s long-term vision under Glasner could provide Hackney with the platform to take his career to the next level. The club’s ability to offer regular first-team football and a clear development pathway could give them an edge over rivals like Tottenham, where competition for places is fiercer.
