Everton are continuing their efforts to sign Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney this summer, though negotiations between the two clubs remain significantly apart, according to TEAMtalk. The Toffees have already had offers of £12million and £15million rejected as they attempt to secure the services of the 23-year-old.
Middlesbrough are reportedly holding out for a total package of around £25million for Hackney, who won the Championship’s Player of the Season Award following a standout campaign. Sources indicate that Hackney is expected to depart the Riverside Stadium after Boro failed to achieve promotion to the Premier League, leading to interest from numerous clubs.
Several other Premier League sides have expressed interest in Hackney, including Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, Crystal Palace, and Sunderland. However, Everton are the only club to have made concrete offers thus far. The Merseyside club view Hackney as a key component in their midfield rebuild, particularly given the uncertain future of Idrissa Gana Gueye, whose contract expires at the end of the month.
Everton’s interest may also be influenced by potential departures elsewhere in their squad; River Plate have reportedly held talks regarding a move for Everton’s Charly Alcaraz, potentially creating a further need for midfield reinforcement. The club believe Hackney is keen on joining the project at Everton under its new ownership.
Middlesbrough, however, are proving to be tough negotiators, seeking to maximize the value of a player who has just one year remaining on his current contract. While some clubs believe Hackney’s contract situation should lower his asking price, Boro are determined to secure a substantial fee. Everton may attempt to include young midfielder Harrison Armstrong in a potential deal, though the Toffees are currently reluctant to allow him to leave permanently, potentially considering a loan spell.
Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest, Brighton, and Fulham are all monitoring the situation closely and could make a move if negotiations between Everton and Middlesbrough stall. Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur have also registered initial interest, but have not yet made any formal bids. Despite the competition, Everton remain in a strong position to sign Hackney, but significant work remains to bridge the gap in valuation with Middlesbrough.
