Tottenham Hotspur risk missing out on Hayden Hackney to a Premier League rival this summer, as relegation looms.
Tottenham were allegedly considering a move for the Middlesbrough man in January, but in the end, they ended up securing Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid instead.
It has been widely reported over the last couple of months that Spurs are expected to reignite their interest in Hackney, who is thought to be valued at around £30m.
Some sources have suggested that Man United could potentially challenge the Lilywhites for the midfielder, but another club may now steal the march.
Brighton set to step up interest in Tottenham target Hayden Hackney
Journalist Pete O’Rourke has now revealed that the Seagulls have set their sights on the 23-year-old as they look to bolster their midfield.
He also credited Nottingham Forest with an interest in the Boro star but suggested that Fabian Hurzeler’s men could steal a march on the England U21 star’s other suitors.
When asked about the race for Hackney, O’Rourke told Football Insider: “He’s a standout player, Hayden Hackney, arguably the best player outside the Premier League right now. Brighton are very clever in what they do in the transfer window with their signings and Hayden Hackney will be a player that could be a real smart pick up.
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“It doesn’t surprise me that they are one of the clubs interested, but you’re looking at half the Premier League, the likes of Forest for example, who would be interested in Hackney. Brighton could offer someone like Hackney a great platform if he was to leave Middlesbrough.
“A lot will depend on whether they secure Premier League promotion or not. Brighton are right there in the mix to try and sign him, and they feel they could steal a march on their rivals in the summer window.”
Hackney’s future could depend on Middlesbrough’s promotion push
It has been reported that Hackney could remain at Middlesbrough next season if they get promoted to the Premier League.
Several sources suggest that the Tottenham target is certain to leave this summer if his club do not get promoted, with the 23-year-old appearing set to play in the top-flight one way or the other next season.