West Ham United are reportedly exploring a move for Middlesbrough’s midfielder Hayden Hackney.
Hackney has featured in all three of Boro’s Championship wins this season, scoring in the 3-0 victory at Millwall and playing a key role in the 2-1 success at Norwich City.
Riverside graduate’s performances have been backed by numbers.
According to FBref (last 365 days data), he averaged 9.92 progressive passes per 90 minutes, ranking in the 99th percentile and 3.80 shot-creating actions, which places him in the 91st percentile.
He also attempts more than 70 passes a game with an 84 percent success rate.
Ipswich offer rejected, West Ham United face deadline pressure
According to Northern Echo, Ipswich offered around £20m [$26m] at the end of July and were given permission to hold talks.
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Hackney traveled to Suffolk but rejected the move and has since maintained that stance despite Ipswich’s willingness to revive their offer.
West Ham manager Graham Potter has prioritized midfield reinforcements after his side conceded eight goals in their opening two league matches against Sunderland and Chelsea.
The Hammers’ budget remains tight with Edson Alvarez’s wages removed but no transfer fee secured after he signed for Turkish side Fenerbahce on a season long loan.
Guido Rodriguez is also seen as a possible departure and any sale could help West Ham generate funds to bring in the creativity they need in midfield.
Middlesbrough want to keep Hackney but his future may hinge on whether a Premier League club meets their valuation. The chance to play in the top flight could be tempting for the Redcar-born midfielder.
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