Third in the table in January 1975, Burnley finished the season in mid-table, and despite Hankin's 13 goals, were relegated back to the Second Division in at the end of the 1975–76 campaign. Hankin began the new season still at the club, but was available for transfer. In September 1976, the injury-hit West Ham United agreed a fee of £200,000 for the player; he turned them down, because he and his wife would be uncomfortable in London. A move to Leeds United1973–74 Football League champions and 1975 European Cup Finalistswas agreed, but the medical revealed knee problems that required further investigation and possible surgery. Amid reported interest from Middlesbrough, Leeds were convinced that the injury "would have no long-term complications", and the move went ahead, for a fee of £172,000.