Middlesbrough’s frantic transfer window came to a natural end on Monday evening, when they forced one more transaction by signing Kelechi Iheancacho on loan from Sevilla.
During Monday night football at the Riverside, the Nigerian striker witnessed his new colleagues face promotion-chasing Sunderland.
Unfortunately, Boro fell short in the Tees-Wear derby, when a deflected Enzo Le Fée cross ricocheted off Ryan Giles late on, giving the Black Cats a 3-2 victory.
Nonetheless, Michael Carrick’s team put up a strong effort, with Hayden Hackney standing out once more in the heart of midfield.
His outing was highlighted by a stunning strike from outside the box, but he also created two chances and made 15 passes in the final third, assisting Delano Burgzorg.
This performance was indicative of the 22-year-old’s good season, and if he continues to perform well, it would not be surprising if further offers arrive in the summer following January’s £10 million negotiations with FC Porto.
FC Porto transfer pursuit of Hayden Hackney in January window speaks volumes
Hackney may not have been the main talking topic for Boro throughout the January transfer window, but interest did arrive on Monday (February 3) as FC Porto attempted to secure a late deal for the Englishman.
According to Sky Sports’ Keith Downie, the Portuguese giants made a second offer to Carrick’s side on deadline day, sending in a £10 million package for the midfielder. They were looking for a replacement for Nico Gonzalez, who is moving to Manchester City.
Given the time of the approach, Boro were never expected to accept, and they quickly rejected the offer, with Downie saying that the club valued Hackney significantly higher.
With Hackney under contract at the Riverside until 2027 and defensive midfielders in high demand in today’s game, Porto would have needed to make a far bigger offer. His value is expected to rise over the next six months, and you can be sure that a slew of clubs will be interested in signing him this summer.
Hayden Hackney is key for Middlesbrough’s promotion hopes
Hackney has played a crucial role in Middlesbrough’s success in the play-off race, despite the focus on their aggressive style.
Aside from his five goals and two assists, the young midfielder has a genuine talent for controlling play and has some of the finest passing figures in the division. He averages 64.46 passes per game and ranks high in terms of precise long balls, touches, and successful dribbles.
While his midfield partner Aidan Morris works hard off the ball, Hackney more than holds his own, with 6.61 recoveries per 90 minutes, ranking him among the top 7.1% of midfielders in the division.
| Hayden Hackney Key Figures 2024-25 (League Only) | |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 27 |
| Goals + Assists | 7 |
| Passes Per Game | 64.46 |
| Accurate Long Balls Per Game | 3.94 |
| Successful Dribbles | 1.03 |
| Touches Per Game | 91.87 |
| Recoveries Per Game | 6.61 |
Keeping hold of him was critical to Boro’s promotion aspirations in May, and many EFL supporters believe Carrick has the most naturally gifted group in and around the top six.
If the head coach can persuade them to play at the requisite level, there is no reason they can’t advance. At this point, it will have to be through the play-offs, and Hackney will need to be at his peak to help his team overcome the opponents.
Currently, Boro fans will be relieved to still have him, and Porto’s £10 million bid will have confirmed his quality.
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