Everton are reportedly pushing to sign Hayden Hackney, who has also been linked with Sunderland
Sunderland-linked midfielder Hayden Hackney remains at the centre of a major Premier League transfer battle, with Everton continuing their pursuit of the Middlesbrough midfielder.
According to TEAMtalk, Everton are the club showing the strongest interest in Hackney this summer, although they remain some distance away from reaching an agreement with Boro. The report claims Everton have already seen offers worth £12million and £15million rejected, with Middlesbrough holding out for a package worth around £25million for one of their most valuable assets.
Hackney, 23, is expected to leave the Riverside Stadium this summer after Middlesbrough failed to secure promotion to the Premier League. The former England under-21 international is regarded as one of the Championship’s standout midfielders and was named the division’s Player of the Season.
Sunderland have also been mentioned in connection with Hackney, with TEAMtalk claiming the Black Cats have explored the player’s situation in recent months. Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace are also said to have taken an interest, though Everton’s pursuit is described as the most advanced at this stage.
A Sunderland move would always carry an extra layer of intrigue given Hackney’s Middlesbrough background and the rivalry between the clubs. However, Everton appear to be the side pushing hardest as things stand, with the Toffees looking to reshape their midfield under their new ownership structure.
Hackney has just 12 months remaining on his Middlesbrough contract, which complicates Boro’s position slightly. Rival clubs may feel that should reduce the asking price, but Middlesbrough are still understood to be determined to maximise their return.
Everton’s midfield situation could also play a part. Idrissa Gana Gueye is out of contract at the end of the month, while TEAMtalk has also reported that River Plate have held talks over a move for Charly Alcaraz.m That leaves Hackney as an obvious target for a club looking to add legs, technical quality and Championship-proven consistency in the middle of the pitch.
Hackney would fit the profile of a young, homegrown midfielder with room to develop and potential resale value, but the financial package required and Everton’s advanced interest mean any deal would appear difficult at this stage.
Continue Reading