The Whites look increasingly likely to survive in the Premier League, with Tottenham and Nottingham Forest sitting between them and the bottom three.

That would represent a massive achievement for Daniel Farke and Co., but he won’t be able to rest on his laurels moving into the summer.

Further reinforcements need to be at the forefront of everyone’s mind at Elland Road, and it seems as if plans are already in motion.

Middlesbrough star Hackney is a player of interest, and the Yorkshire club may grow increasingly confident about landing his signature.

Hayden Hackney reveals thoughts on exit links

The Englishman has been one of the best players in the Championship this season, so he is always going to attract interest.

That has been the case now for many seasons, but the midfielder has always opted to stick around at the Riverside.

Boro are fighting at the top of the second tier to earn promotion, with that representing a main career goal for Hackney right now.

He has provided that as a reason for snubbing various exit routes from Middlesbrough in an interview with Sky Sports on Monday.

The midfielder was asked if it had ever crossed his mind to leave.

Hackney replied: “No, this is the dream, to play for Middlesbrough. This year and last year, I feel like we have a really good chance [of going up].

“This year, I feel like if we keep going the way we are, you never know.”

This may represent a nail in the coffin for Leeds’ hopes of signing the 23-year-old, but it could actually represent fresh hope.

Leeds United will watch Middlesbrough closely in Hackney transfer hopes

If Leeds want the all-action midfielder in the summer, it appears they will be waiting on how Boro finish the season.

Kim Hellberg’s side currently sit second in the Championship on 61 points, ahead of Millwall, but narrowly behind Coventry City on 62 points.

There are still 13 games to go before automatic promotion is sorted, and there are plenty of twists and turns to be had, like Boro’s loss at Coventry on Monday.

Farke will be waiting to learn the final outcome of the second tier, ready to swoop in if things don’t quite go Middlesbrough’s way.

If they don’t earn promotion, it does feel as if Hackney could welcome a Riverside exit after two years of hoping for a place in the Premier League.

For the latest news on Leeds’ transfer activity, visit Football Insider for regular updates.