Crystal Palace are challenging Everton in the pursuit of Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, with the Eagles preparing to submit their highest bid yet for the 23-year-old. Hackney, who has one year remaining on his current contract, was named the Championship’s Player of the Season after a standout campaign for Boro, contributing six goals and eight assists in 41 league appearances.
Everton had previously emerged as frontrunners for Hackney’s signature, viewing him as a key addition to their midfield according to reports from April. Negotiations between the Toffees and the player’s representatives had reportedly progressed, with Hackney initially favouring a move to Merseyside. However, Everton have seen offers of £12million and £15million rejected by Middlesbrough, who are holding out for a package valued at £25million – £20million plus £5million in add-ons.
Palace are now poised to enter the race with a formal bid, expected to be close to £20million, as reported by The Daily Mail’s Bobby Manzi. While this offer falls short of Middlesbrough’s valuation, Palace can offer Hackney the prospect of Europa League football following their Europa Conference League victory. The club also has a recent track record of successfully integrating Championship players into their Premier League squad, most notably Adam Wharton.
Despite Palace’s interest, TEAMtalk understands that Hackney still prefers a transfer to Everton, where he believes he can follow in the footsteps of James Garner and progress his international career with England. Should Palace submit their £20million bid, they will still need to convince the player to choose Selhurst Park. Everton are not expected to face issues agreeing personal terms, giving them a continued advantage in the negotiations. A significant offer from Palace, however, could force Everton to increase their bid to avoid losing out on the highly-rated midfielder.
