Everton are closing in on a new signing this summer, as GIVEMESPORT senior correspondent Ben Jacobs reports that a deal has been agreed for Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney.
It comes as the Toffees continue to explore their options to improve in the transfer market, following a disappointing end to the previous season in the Premier League.
While the club have quickly banished relegation concerns under David Moyes, the possibility of a return to Europe slipped away from the Merseyside outfit in the final few weeks of the season.
There is an acknowledgment that more quality is required to get to the very top, with Merlin Rohl arriving as the first official signing after survival triggered a permanent deal clause.
More is needed across the squad, however, and Everton are closing in on Hackney to help add some quality into the midfield department.
Everton Agree Hayden Hackney Deal
Hayden Hackney
According to Ben Jacobs, Everton have struck a deal with Championship side Middlesbrough over a move for Hackney, with a fee in the region of £25 million settled upon.
The Toffees have been chasing the 24-year-old for some time already this summer, while they haven't been alone in their interest in his services.
Tottenham and Man United have been linked with a deal, alongside Crystal Palace, as Boro's failure to get promoted last campaign has opened the path towards an exit.
Hackney has just one-year remaining on his contract at the Riverside Stadium, but his quality and potential have played a part in the large fee the club have seemingly agreed for him.
The midfielder was a regular at under-21s level for England, while his progression in senior football has seen him crowned as the Championship Player of the Year for the most recent campaign.
The star was described as "unbelievable" last season, and if he can help translate that quality from the second tier into the Premier League, then Everton will have a gem on their hands.
World Cup 2026 Quiz
You scored
↩ Play again
Where Should Everton Sign Players Next?
David Moyes
The move for Hackney will now help reinforce the midfield for Everton, which was creaking at times last season with plenty of injuries afflicting the postiion - which ultimately led to youngster Harrison Armstrong being recalled from Preston and playing a part in the latter half of the campaign.
Now, attention can shift elsewhere. It's clear that the Toffees will be looking to add some more firepower in the forward ranks to score a few more goals in important matches.
David Moyes Related
Everton Now Want World Cup Record-Breaker As Transfer Advantage Revealed
Everton are eyeing up a deal for a World Cup star to help improve their midfield ranks this summer.
Jarrod Bowen has been linked with Everton for a potential reunion with Moyes, following West Ham's recent relegation. It's unclear whether a return for Jack Grealish could be on the cards after an impressive loan spell.
A centre-forward could be on the cards too, with Thierno Barry linked with an exit to RB Leipzig. Then focus may shift to the backline and other players who could make an impact in the long-term for the club.