Nottingham Forest had been observing Hayden Hackney's performances last season and expressed interest in signing the player. Several clubs, including Manchester United, West Ham United, Crystal Palace, Tottenham, and Nottingham Forest, were reportedly interested in the Middlesbrough midfielder, who was linked with a potential transfer away from the club during the summer window. Middlesbrough, despite not requiring additional funds, might consider selling Hackney to back their manager, Rob Edwards. It was suggested that a transfer fee in the region of £20-25 million could potentially enable his transfer, with Nottingham Forest being one of the clubs keenly following his situation.