Everton are currently the frontrunners to sign Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, with talks between the clubs progressing significantly, according to reports. While a deal is not yet complete, the Toffees are working diligently to secure Hackney’s signature amidst competition from several other Premier League clubs.
Interest from Everton first surfaced in December, as reported by TEAMtalk, and the club has since emerged as a leading contender for the 23-year-old. Everton’s recruitment team are said to be highly impressed with Hackney, who was named Championship Player of the Season after a standout campaign that culminated in a play-off final appearance for Middlesbrough. Last season, Hackney contributed six goals and eight assists in 41 league games.
A fee in the region of £20 million, potentially rising to £25 million with add-ons, is understood to be the likely cost of the transfer, given Hackney has only one year remaining on his current contract with Middlesbrough. Several other clubs are monitoring the situation, including Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest, Brighton, Brentford, and Fulham. Tottenham and Manchester United have also expressed interest, but concerns over guaranteed playing time may hinder their pursuit.
Hackney is reportedly attracted to the prospect of joining Everton, having observed the successful integration of James Garner into the first team. The potential arrival of Hackney could also impact the future of Idrissa Gana Gueye, whose contract is set to expire at the end of the month and does not automatically renew despite meeting appearance targets. Everton are expected to continue discussions with Gueye to determine his future at the club. Meanwhile, Merlin Rohl’s permanent move from Freiburg for £17 million, triggered by Everton’s Premier League survival, has already been confirmed.
