Fulham are interested in signing Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, who is being tracked by several top Premier League clubs.
Twenty-three-year-old Hackney scored for Boro at Craven Cottage earlier this month when his side lost 3-1 to Fulham in the FA Cup third round.
Despite the defeat, Hackney’s performance evidently impressed Fulham boss Marco Silva.
Silva has made it clear that he wishes to strengthen his squad before the end of the January window.
The Portuguese coach admitted January signings are “more complicated” to complete than in the summer.
But he also believes himself and the club are “fully aligned” on the need to bring in reinforcements this month.
And while Fulham sit comfortably in mid-table in the Premier League, they cannot afford to rest on their laurels.
To that end, young midfielder Hackney has emerged as a key target.
Fulham will face plenty of competition, though, including from Michael Carrick’s Manchester United.
Fulham Targeting Middlesbrough’s Hayden Hackney
Having scored at Craven Cottage, Hackney was a standout performer for Middlesbrough in their recent cup tie.
Reports now indicate that Fulham are keen on signing the former England under-21s star.
The West London club have been keeping tabs on Hackney for some time, and his display against them further confirmed their interest.
He’s one of our own! pic.twitter.com/lgTsQQxEce
— Middlesbrough FC (@Boro) January 10, 2026
Middlesbrough are believed to be demanding at least £30 million for any sale.
Boro are under no pressure to sell cheaply, and will hope to hang on to one of their top talents as they chase promotion.
Other interested clubs include Manchester United, Tottenham, Everton and Brighton.
Is Hayden Hackney Ready For The Premier League?
Despite still being just 23, Hackney has been essential for Boro’s promotion push.
The Redcar-born academy graduate has taken the captains armband, and notched up four goals and six assists from defensive midfield.
Boro boss Kim Hellberg has called Hackney a “fantastic player” who is “good at everything”.
The Swedish coach added: “He could play in every position there is on the pitch and do it brilliantly.”
“He will be in the Premier League next year, with or without Middlesbrough!”
High praise for Hayden Hackney from Neil Warnock and Michael Dawson pic.twitter.com/wcRpwsJE1u
— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) December 5, 2025
Hackney tops the stats charts for in numerous areas, and has shown maturity and composure well beyond his years.
Able to drive forwards from deep and play a big role in build-up, he looks more than ready to make the step up to the Premier League.
An exciting option, he could be a superb long-term signing for whoever can land his signature.
Boro will be hoping they can persuade him to stay until at least the summer.
But if Fulham can tempt him to Craven Cottage, it would be a fantastic addition to Marco Silva’s squad.


