“West Ham’s Jaw-Dropping £10M Raid for Sensational Star Will Leave Potter’s Squad Unstoppable!”

West Ham’s midfield frailties, which were glaring throughout last season, have once again been exposed in their first two fixtures of the new campaign.

The Hammers suffered a 3-0 defeat against Sunderland before being thrashed 5-1 by Chelsea, with both matches underlining the lack of balance in the centre of the pitch.

They looked devoid of defensive solidity and attacking creativity, offering no resistance to opposition midfielders.

This was most evident at Stamford Bridge, where Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo exchanged passes almost at will, completing close to ten passes between them without being pressed by any West Ham player.

It is clear that new, energetic additions are needed — not only to shield the backline but also to provide the crucial link in transitioning play from midfield to attack.

According to the Guardian’s Jacob Steinberg, the club has identified Middlesbrough’s Hayden Hackney as a potential solution.

Reports suggest West Ham are exploring the possibility of signing the highly-rated 23-year-old this summer.

Hackney’s deal with Middlesbrough runs until 2027, meaning his club would likely demand a significant fee, well beyond his current £10 million valuation on Transfermarkt.

The move is still at an exploratory stage, and until progress is made, Rodrigo’s possible exit remains on hold.

West Ham’s situation has been further complicated by the departure of Edson Álvarez to Turkish giants Fenerbahçe and continued uncertainty over Guido Rodríguez’s future.

As things stand, James Ward-Prowse and Tomáš Souček are the only reliable midfield options, leaving the squad short of depth with just a week remaining before the transfer deadline.

Hackney, an England U21 international, is known for his versatility. He can operate as a defensive midfielder or in a more advanced role, boasting impressive numbers in both progressive passing and ball carrying.

His profile fits exactly what West Ham’s midfield is currently missing — dynamism.

Last season, he averaged 2.73 progressive carries per 90 minutes, frequently driving the ball forward and helping his side transition from defence to attack.

This kind of energy and forward-thinking play is what the Hammers have been crying out for, especially after struggling to compete against younger, quicker opponents.

At just 23, Hackney would provide a youthful, athletic presence while still being affordable compared to other top-flight targets.

For a side desperate to strengthen its midfield, his arrival could prove pivotal in stabilising West Ham’s campaign and preventing a repeat of last season’s struggles.