Everton are reportedly in talks with Middlesbrough over a move for midfielder Hayden Hackney, with the Toffees looking to move ahead of rival Premier League interest, as per David Ornstein of The Athletic.
The 23-year-old has emerged as one of the most sought-after players outside the top flight after an outstanding campaign in the Championship, and Everton are now said to be pushing to bring him to Hill Dickinson Stadium as part of a summer reshaping of David Moyes’ squad.
Tottenham Hotspur, Leeds United and Crystal Palace have all been linked with the midfielder, who has a £20m price tag on his head. Everton are reported to be in a strong position, with the player said to favour a move to Merseyside if an agreement can be reached.
Middlesbrough are in a difficult position. Hackney is entering the final year of his current deal, and while Boro are not thought to be desperate sellers, they risk losing leverage if he does not sign fresh terms. That creates an obvious decision point for the Championship club, particularly with Premier League sides circling.
Hackney’s Stock Continues To Rise
Hackney has built his reputation as one of the most polished midfielders in the division. Comfortable receiving the ball under pressure, capable of dictating tempo and increasingly influential in the final third, he has developed from a promising academy player into one of Middlesbrough’s most important assets.
He made his senior debut for Boro in January 2021 before gaining valuable league experience during a loan spell with Scunthorpe United in the 2021-22 campaign. Since returning to Teesside, he has gradually become a key part of the first team, establishing himself as a midfielder with the technical ability and composure to step up.
Last season underlined that progress. Hackney made 41 appearances in all competitions, contributing six goals and eight assists, form that saw him named the EFL Championship Player of the Season. He was also voted Middlesbrough’s Player of the Season by supporters for the second successive year.
Middlesbrough will expect a significant fee, and competition from elsewhere means Everton may need to move quickly if they are to secure him. Established Premier League midfielders can come with inflated fees and limited resale value, while the best Championship players often arrive hungry, battle-tested and ready for the next step.
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