Liverpool are expected to “rival” Tottenham and other Premier League teams for the signature of Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, according to the Daily Mail.

It is believed that the Reds and Spurs have been actively scouting the 21-year-old, along with the likes of Manchester City, Manchester United and Nottingham Forest.

Hackney has been a regular starter for Boro this season, having played 20 games in all competitions so far. A hamstring injury has meant that the England Under 21 international has not played since the end of last month.

The fact that scouts have not attended Middlesbrough’s matches in Hackney’s absence is the biggest indication that they were only there to watch the midfielder.

Clubs could make offers for Hackney in January

Forest are reportedly the team that are the likeliest to make a formal offer for the player next month, although it is felt that Michael Carrick’s side won’t welcome any bids.

However, Boro are expected to change their stance on Hackney, with the Mail reporting that there is an acceptance from the Teessiders that he will “leave” next summer.

Liverpool have a longstanding interest in Hackney

The Reds’ interest in Hackney is by no means new. Back in May, 90min.com reported that Jurgen Klopp‘s team, along with Arsenal, Newcastle, Leicester and Forest were keeping tabs on his situation.

He is a holding midfield player by trade so there is some debate over whether he would be an option for the first team straight away, if he did make a switch to Anfield.

With Alexis Mac Allister, Wataru Endo and Stefan Bajcetic already in the squad, Hackney may find it difficult to get minutes on the pitch, so we shall have to wait and see how this transfer story develops.

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