TEAMtalk has confirmed that Brentford are among several clubs, including Everton, Fulham, Crystal Palace, Brighton, and Bournemouth, that have undertaken scouting and analysis on 23-year-old English midfielder Hayden Hackney in recent months. The midfielder's future is subject to scrutiny as he enters the final 12 months of his contract at Middlesbrough, particularly after the club failed to gain promotion. Nottingham Forest are reportedly preparing to move quickly for Hackney, whom they also attempted to sign during the January transfer window. According to TEAMtalk, sources have confirmed that Forest were advancing their plans for a summer move regardless of Middlesbrough's league status but now believe it is easier to sign him. While Middlesbrough are reluctant to sell, TEAMtalk understands that the club will seek a fee close to £25 million and that they recognise his valuation is affected by his contract situation. No formal bids have yet been submitted. Hackney has 13 caps for the England U21 team, and according to Transfermarkt, he has a current market value of €28.00m. In August 2025, Middlesbrough reportedly accepted a £20 million bid from Ipswich Town, which the player himself rejected.