A link exists between Wolves and Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, a 23-year-old English U21 international, with West Ham, Crystal Palace, and Everton also mentioned as potential destinations. Hackney, who has 18 months remaining on his contract, is considered one of the best central midfielders in the Championship and has 3 goals and 6 assists in 23 league appearances this season. Middlesbrough kept the player over the summer after he rejected a £20m move to Ipswich, and it is thought Steve Gibson would make a significant effort to prevent a transfer to Wolves. His market value is estimated by Transfermarkt to be €25.00m, and in July 2025, Middlesbrough's asking price was reported to be between €23 million and €29 million.