Newcastle are “admirers” of Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, according to the Daily Mail.

The English tabloid claims that the Magpies had the player “watched against Chelsea” last week and he would have impressed observers. He scored the winning goal in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final at the Riverside Stadium.

Hackney is not expected to leave Boro this month, but there is set to be a battle for his signature at the end of the season.

Eddie Howe‘s side are not the only Premier League club interested in the 21-year-old, with Liverpool, Tottenham, Manchester United and Manchester City also weighing up offers for the midfielder.

Middlesbrough are set to hold out for an eight-figure sum

The England Under 21 international has acquired a good deal of experience, having made 64 appearances for Boro since making his senior debut against Blackpool in the FA Cup three years ago.

Hackney is already a key player for the Teessiders and they will not allow him to leave on the cheap. Reports indicate that his asking price could be in excess of £10m.

Are Newcastle lining up any transfers for January?

While an offer for Hackney may only be made in the summer, fans will be hoping that the club make some new additions this month, especially after the serious injury sustained by Joelinton.

The Brazilian international picked up a groin problem in the Tyne-Wear derby and he could now miss the rest of the season if surgery is required.

Short-term solutions have been considered but a deal for Manchester City’s Kalvin Phillips now looks unlikely due to the £7m loan fee that is being demanded. The Magpies may turn their attention towards alternatives who represent better value for money.

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