Everton's summer recruitment drive is now gathering momentum.
The Toffees are expected to complete the signing of Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney after making a breakthrough in negotiations.
Hayden-Hackney
Everton have agreed a deal worth £16.5 million up front, with add-ons potentially taking the package to £25 million.
The Championship Player of the Season enjoyed an outstanding campaign for Middlesbrough, earning widespread praise for his passing range, composure in possession and ability to dictate the tempo of matches.
Everton are also making real progress in their pursuit of Chelsea winger Tyrique George.
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The 20-year-old spent the second half of last season on loan at Goodison Park, making 11 appearances, and Everton are now negotiating a permanent deal structured around a lower initial fee with performance-related add-ons.
Everton have now also turned their attention towards adding further quality in midfield after Hackney.
Everton open talks with Parma over Mandela Keita
According to Sky Italia, Everton have opened discussions with both Parma and Mandela Keita's representatives over a possible transfer.
Napoli's Scott McTominay in action with Parma's Mandela Keita
The report states contact has now been made on both sides as the club step up their interest in the Belgium international.
Keita joined Parma from Royal Antwerp in 2024 and has quickly established himself as one of the Italian club's most dependable midfielders.
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The midfielder has also attracted attention from Spurs and Aston Villa, according to some reports, with Premier League sides taking note of his Serie A exploits.
Why Everton are interested in Mandela Keita
Before moving to Italy, Keita developed in Belgium with OH Leuven before making his name at Royal Antwerp.
The 24-year-old's performances there earned him a move to Serie A and eventually senior international recognition with Belgium.
Primarily a defensive midfielder, Keita has built a reputation for winning possession, reading danger early and keeping the game moving with simple, effective passing.
Mandela-Keita-Antwerp
His ability to cover ground has also made him an important player without the ball, allowing teammates greater freedom further forward.
Sky Italia's latest update suggests discussions remain at an early stage, but the fact Everton have contacted both Parma and the player's representatives indicates their interest is becoming more concrete.
Parma are understood to value Keita highly after his first two seasons in Italy and are under no immediate pressure to sanction a sale, with the midfielder tied to a long-term contract until 2029.
That means Everton may need to submit a significant offer if they decide to formalise their interest over the coming weeks.
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