Newcastle United are ready to challenge Tottenham Hotspur in their pursuit of one of the most talented Championship midfield stars.

Spurs have had success with their recruits from the English football second-tier over recent years.

They picked up Djed Spence after his breakthrough season at Nottingham Forest in the Championship, and he has now become a key first-team player, while there are also huge expectations on Archie Gray at Tottenham.

According to reports, Spurs are now considering raiding Middlesbrough for Hayden Hackney, who has been one of the most consistent midfielders across the Championship over recent years.

Photo by Trevor Wilkinson/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Last week, Spurs Web relayed a report stating that Newcastle may be ready to challenge Spurs for Hackney’s signature.

Former Man United and Sunderland chief scout, Mick Brown, has now confirmed that the 23-year-old is indeed on the Magpies’ radar, but explained that the player is not completely convinced regarding a move to St James’ Park.

Brown told Football Insider: “Hackney is a top player and he’s somebody I rate very highly. It’s no surprise there is interest in him. I’m told a lot of clubs have been keeping tabs on him, and it seems Newcastle are now one of those clubs.

“If...