The latest on Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney with Everton and Crystal Palace reportedly plotting bids
Everton are reportedly prepared to pay around £20m for Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney.
The 23-year-old looks likely to leave the Riverside after another stellar season in the Championship and has a raft of admirers. Hackney shone under Kim Hellberg last term but his exploits were not enough to send Boro into the Premier League.
Hayden Hackney made 41 appearances for Middlesbrough last season.placeholder image
Hayden Hackney made 41 appearances for Middlesbrough last season. | Ed Sykes/Getty Images
Hayden Hackney bids planned
GiveMeSport have now claimed Middlesbrough are plotting a bid for Hackney and are willing to pay around £20m for his signature.
Crystal Palace are also credited with interest in the report, which has claimed the Eagles are expected to table an offer in the coming days.
It has also claimed Hackney is on the radars of Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, although both clubs are thought to be prioritising other targets.
Middlesbrough’s position
Middlesbrough are reportedly willing to dig their heels in if their transfer demands are not met this summer. It has been suggested the club want £25m and it remains to be seen whether a £20m offer is high enough to weaken their resolve.
Hackney has one year left on his contract and could depart on a free transfer in the next summer window. However, if he sticks around and helps Middlesbrough seal promotion, it could make up for the financial hit.
Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney is reportedly of interest to a raft of Premier League clubs.placeholder image
Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney is reportedly of interest to a raft of Premier League clubs. | Mike Egerton/PA Wire
In a recent appearances 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.
“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."