Nottingham Forest are planning to accelerate their move for Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney after their crucial clash against Sheffield United this weekend, sources have told Football Insider.
Nuno Espirito Santo’s side are currently 17th in the Premier League table, one point above the relegation zone with three games left to play.
The outcome of Saturday’s trip to Bramall Lane will have a huge bearing on which division Forest find themselves in next season.
Regardless of their league status, the recruitment team at the City Ground are working hard behind the scenes on potential summer targets.
Football Insider revealed on 22 April that Forest have made Middlesbrough midfielder Hackney a “top target” for the upcoming window.
Nottingham Forest to step up Hayden Hackney pursuit
Sources say the club are now ready to step up their interest and hold further talks with the 21-year-old’s representatives and Middlesbrough.
Forest believe the England Under-21 international would be a perfect fit for their midfield and are keen to get a deal done early.
Hackney has been a standout performer for Boro since breaking into the first team last season and has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs.
Tottenham, West Ham and Liverpool have all been credited with an interest in the youngster, but Forest are hoping to steal a march on their rivals.
Middlesbrough are braced for offers for their prize asset this summer but will demand a significant fee for a player who is under contract until 2027.
Hackney has made 28 appearances in all competitions for Michael Carrick’s side this season, scoring two goals and providing two assists.
His campaign has been disrupted by injury, but he returned to the starting line-up for the final weeks of the Championship season.
Forest are set for a busy summer of transfer activity as they look to reshape their squad, with several players expected to depart to help comply with Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
