Middlesbrough hope to finalise a deal with Red Star for Balthazar Pierret as they seek a replacement for Hayden Hackney, who has left for Everton. According to Sky Sports journalist Sacha Tavolieri, Middlesbrough are among the leading contenders and have reached the final stage in their pursuit of the 26-year-old French midfielder. Tavolieri suggests that negotiations are progressing, although an agreement has not been finalised. Middlesbrough had a €300,000 offer, which included a 10 per cent clause, rejected by Red Star. The French club is hoping for a fee of around €500,000, and Middlesbrough is attempting to agree on a deal between the clubs before negotiating terms with Pierret. Pierret joined Red Star in January 2026. His current market value is €1.50m, according to Transfermarkt. He has also been linked with the Polish clubs Lech Poznań and Widzew Lodz.