Everton Expected To Return For Hackney
Everton are reportedly expected to reopen talks with Middlesbrough after seeing an £18m package for Hayden Hackney rejected, according to The Yorkshire Post.
The offer is said to have been worth £11m upfront plus £7m in add-ons, but Boro are understood to want a stronger guaranteed fee. A package of £20m upfront, plus a further £5m in add-ons, has been suggested as the level Middlesbrough may require.
Hackney has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, with Everton and Crystal Palace both linked. Middlesbrough are unlikely to let one of their most important players leave cheaply, particularly given the challenge of replacing him before another Championship campaign.
The 23-year-old scored six goals in 41 appearances last season and has become one of the division’s most admired midfielders.
The next step now depends on whether Everton return with an improved offer, or whether Palace formalise their reported interest.
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