The latest transfer talk from Middlesbrough as a number of Premier League clubs are linked with Hayden Hackney.
Middlesbrough talisman Hayden Hackney is reportedly the subject of interest from six Premier League clubs after Everton revived their interest in the midfielder.
The Boro captain produced yet another impressive season as he scored five goals and provided eight assists in 38 Championship appearances as Kim Hellberg’s side narrowly missed out on promotion into the Premier League. Hackney’s absence during the final weeks of the season hit Boro hard as they ended the campaign in the play-off places before a Wembley defeat against Hull City ended any thoughts or securing a spot in the top flight.
The loss has also cast doubt over Hackney’s Boro future - and Hellberg has already stated he has no doubt the midfielder will become a Premier League player at some point in the future.
Speaking after a win at QPR in March, the Boro boss said: “He is getting better all the time. I think he gets better every day, and understands more and more about how we work, and the spaces for him. And then, of course, the quality he has is unbelievable to work with. The quality he has as a player is unbelievable. The way he drives with the ball. He's working on his finishing, and that we have seen with some brilliant finishes.
“Norwich at home and this one is two beautiful goals. He also has the first chance in the first half, so he's unbelievable to work with. He's a pleasure and such a great guy for us to work with. He's a top player. He has everything and he will end up in the Premier League someday, and hopefully with us. Top, top player.”
Hackney’s hopes to helping guide Boro back into the Premier League after a nine-year absence were ended by the play-off final defeat against Hull City - but a number of top flight clubs are said to be ready to hand the Boro academy graduate a chance to shine at the highest level in English football during the summer transfer window.
Nottingham Forest, Crystal Palace, Newcastle United and Manchester United have all been linked with the midfielder in recent weeks - but Sky Sports have reported Everton are leading the chase for his signature after reviving their interest since Boro’s play-off defeat against the Tigers. Toffees manager David Moyes is said to be ‘keen to bolster’ his midfield options during the summer transfer window and Hackney is said to be ‘high among the names’ being considered for a move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
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