The latest on Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney after an Everton ‘approach’
Middlesbrough have reportedly rebuffed an approach from Everton for in-demand midfielder Hayden Hackney.
When the whistle blew in the Championship play-off final, which Middlesbrough had lost to Hull City, the Riverside faithful were resigned to losing Hackney.
The 23-year-old has a raft of Premier League admirers and has spent the bulk of the last two years at the centre of transfer speculation.
Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney is being eyed by a raft of Premier League clubs.placeholder image
Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney is being eyed by a raft of Premier League clubs. | George Wood/Getty Images
Hayden Hackney twist emerges
However, according to Sky Sports, the Merseyside club have been firmly knocked back following an initial approach.
The report has suggested the clubs are far from meeting Middlesbrough’s asking price and that no further talks are ongoing.
The Championship club are reportedly willing to hold on to Hackney for the final year of his contract if their transfer demands are not met.
Hayden Hackney is a product of Middlesbrough's academy.placeholder image
Hayden Hackney is a product of Middlesbrough's academy. | Steve Welsh/PA Wire
Middlesbrough’s position
It is hardly uncommon for Premier League clubs to try and strike a bargain deal when a Championship star’s contract is creeping closer to expiry.
For Middlesbrough, however, a cheap sale is simply not in their best interests. A player of Hackney’s calibre will need replacing and a talent capable of plugging the gap will be tough to find for a low sum.
Kim Hellberg’s men will be eyeing another promotion tilt and even if they miss out on the financial benefits of a move for Hackney, retention of the midfielder could prove incredibly useful.
That being said, they will need to hope Hackney does not push too strongly for a move and act as a distraction from the club’s campaign ambitions.