“SHOCKING Allen Exclusive: West Ham Set to Smash Transfer Records with JAW-DROPPING £25M Loan-to-Buy Steal for England’s UNBELIEVABLE ‘Diamond’ Superstar!”

West Ham United are exploring a potential move for Middlesbrough’s Hayden Hackney this summer, as Graham Potter continues to wrestle with issues in midfield at the London Stadium.

Although the Hammers have already secured the services of Mateus Fernandes and Soungoutou Magassa, there is still a sense that an additional recruit in the middle of the park would strengthen Potter’s options.

Hackney has therefore emerged as a realistic target ahead of the September 1 transfer deadline, and his qualities could make him an ideal signing for the East London club.

Michael Carrick, a former West Ham midfielder now managing at Middlesbrough, has described Hackney as “exemplary,” and that endorsement only highlights why the Irons may view him as a perfect addition, should they be able to navigate what promises to be a difficult negotiation.

However, bringing Hackney to E20 could potentially limit the development of Freddie Potts, who has impressed during a loan spell at Portsmouth but remains relatively inexperienced compared to the 21-year-old Boro star.

Hackney, by contrast, has become one of the standout performers in the Championship, which naturally increases his value.

Reports suggest Middlesbrough, led by Rob Edwards, will demand a significant fee.

Former Hammers midfielder and manager Martin Allen, speaking exclusively to West Ham Zone, floated the idea of a loan with an obligation to buy. Yet he admitted Boro may not agree to such terms.

Allen explained: “A loan with an obligation to buy next season would help West Ham with their spending plans.

But Middlesbrough are likely to want around £25m up front, plus £10m in add-ons and a sell-on clause in case Hackney develops into an £80m or £90m player. We’ve seen it before with young talents moving from the Championship to the Premier League.

Adam Wharton is a great example. Perhaps it’s time West Ham take the plunge and discover their own gem in Hackney.”

Indeed, Wharton’s swift rise at Crystal Palace, following his move from Blackburn Rovers, underlines the potential rewards of such a transfer.

Some even argue Hackney is further along in his development than Wharton was prior to his Premier League switch.

That comparison illustrates why this could be a pivotal opportunity for Potter and his recruitment team.

If West Ham manage to secure Hackney before the deadline, they would not only bolster their midfield but also invest in one of England’s brightest young prospects.

All eyes will now be on Middlesbrough’s response, as the Hammers weigh up whether to push hard for a deal that could significantly enhance their squad.