Hayden Hackney, currently with Middlesbrough, is the latest name linked with a potential switch to West Ham. The midfielder could become a key signing should the move materialise, as the club seeks to strengthen in a key area of the pitch. West Ham remain optimistic, but the deal is not without hurdles. Fulham, Wolves and Everton continue to monitor developments and could yet re-enter the race if negotiations stall or valuation gaps remain unresolved. In season 25/26, West Ham are conceding 2.29 goals per game (16 in 7 games), which points to a lack of control in midfield. Hayden Hackney would be expected to calm things down and protect the back line better. Middlesbrough continue to be linked with Matt Targett and Adilson Malanda while West Ham are also rumoured to be tracking Mehdi Taremi, Junior Mwanga and Ibrahim Sangare. Looking for West Ham transfer rumours? Follow us on Twitter @PlayerSwitchCom for more rumours just like this.