- Hayden Hackney a long-term target for Palace
- Boro play-offs will determine price tag
- Hackney the perfect replacement for Kamada
Crystal Palace have been long-term admirers of Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, and are keen to return for his services again this Summer. His market value of £25 million does not take into account his current contract, which is set to expire after the 2026/27 season.
Hackney has been a standout for a Boro side who managed to finish fifth in the Championship despite winning only two of their final ten games. Their reward for their 80 points earned across the season is a play-off semi-final against Southampton, the first-leg of which is being played on Saturday [9th May].
The Telegraph are reporting that Palace are carefully watching the play-offs as Hackney’s price is likely to be determined by the outcome of the race for the final promotion spot.
Clubs interested are reportedly looking to bid in the region of £12 million, which would be a huge coup in today’s market.
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Palace’s Kamada replacement a vital call
Daichi Kamada has established himself as one of Palace’s most important players. The Japanese International has been a revelation compared to his start to life in South London, and despite his departure being all-but confirmed, he has the chance to go out with even more success as Palace prepare for a European final.
Kamada made it clear that he was only signing for Palace because of the manager and their personal connection, but alas, he has certainly brought into the importance of playing for the South London club.
A starter in Palace’s best eleven, Kamada simply must be replaced and replaced adequately if Palace are to continue punching above their weight.
Hackney perfect for Palace
Hackney’s performances this season were recognised when he was awarded the Championship player of the season award. Five goals and seven assists from central midfield, Hackney has continued to develop and is now one of the stand-out names.
He’s played an incredible 3,314 minutes in the Championship alone, which is almost as many as Adam Wharton has in all competitions.
Hackney makes 2.2 key passes per game, 5.4 recoveries, 1.8 tackles and has not made a single error leading to a goal all season.
His ball carrying ability would match that of Kamada’s. Hackney is superb on the ball, and has an eye for a goal. Not only did he score five goals in the regular Championship season, but his ability to strike the ball from range and score would add much needed goal threat to the Palace midfield.
A box-crashing midfielder will be needed to replace Daichi Kamada’s output, and adding more goals from midfield would only strengthen Palace’s system.
We’ll be keeping you updated with this story as it develops.
