Everton reportedly revive interest in Middlesbrough’s Leeds United-linked star Hayden Hackney
Everton have reportedly revived interest in Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney.
The 23-year-old is widely expected to have played his final game for Middlesbrough after the club missed out on promotion to the Premier League.
An all-action midfielder, Hackney has established himself among the Championship’s top talents and appears ready to step up to England’s top flight.
With just one year remaining on his contract, this summer could be Middlesbrough’s last chance to cash in on their most coveted asset.
Hayden Hackney has made 154 appearances for Middlesbrough at first-team level.placeholder image
Hayden Hackney has made 154 appearances for Middlesbrough at first-team level. | George Wood/Getty Images
Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney latest
Sky Sports have claimed Everton are back on Hackney’s trail with the midfielder having spent a considerable period on the radar of Toffees boss David Moyes.
It has been claimed Everton are considering a bid for the former England youth international, who the report has suggested has been monitored closely by Forest and Crystal Palace.
Verdict on Hayden Hackney’s future
Speaking on the Sky Sports Essential EFL Podcast, commentator Gary Weaver said: "I'd be surprised if Hayden Hackney is still at Middlesbrough by September.
"Brentford like him a lot. Everton like him. Forest and Ipswich both made bids last season. I think Middlesbrough are resigned to the fact he will probably go.
Middlesbrough's Hayden Hackney has been linked with a raft of Premier League clubs.placeholder image
Middlesbrough's Hayden Hackney has been linked with a raft of Premier League clubs. | Richard Sellers/PA Wire
"He's been a fantastic Championship player this season. Even in that brief cameo in the [play-off] final you saw how opposition teams react to him."
It very much appears to be a case of when rather than if Hackney moves on, but the Riverside faithful will be keen to see their club receive a hefty fee. Previous reports have indicated Middlesbrough could seek a fee in the region of £20m.