Crystal Palace are reportedly leading the race to sign Middlesbrough’s young midfielder Hayden Hackney. Hackney has impressed in the Championship and Palace are confident of landing the youngster. Middlesbrough seem prepared to let Hackney go, with a move to Palace now increasingly likely, although the deal is not yet finalized.

Hayden Hackney, currently playing for Middlesbrough, is attracting interest from several Premier League clubs including Crystal Palace. Hackney has recently changed his agency and is seeking a transfer to a top league. Middlesbrough is demanding a transfer fee between 23 and 29 million Euros.

The Sun has reported that Crystal Palace is showing interest in acquiring Middlesbrough's standout player, Hayden Hackney, who currently holds a valuation of £15 million. Hackney, aged 23, contributed to England's success in the Under-21 squad. It has been noted that Premier League teams, such as Tottenham, have been observing his performances for more than a year. Additionally, Stuttgart has expressed keen interest, and Porto had an offer of £9 million turned down on the last day of January's transfer window. Hackney has garnered attention with his remarkable performances against Chelsea and Aston Villa in cup matches during the previous season. Crystal Palace scouts have been diligently monitoring Hackney, who initially drew the attention of Palace’s former sporting director, Dougie Freedman.

Crystal Palace are in a three-way battle to sign Middlesbrough's Hayden Hackney, with Aston Villa and Tottenham also keen on the midfielder's signature. (Football Insider)