In the final days of the transfer window, David Moyes will have a major decision to make at Everton concerning one of their own.
It’s fair to say that the overall summer from the perspective of Everton has been a largely positive one.
Eight new arrivals, a revamped attack, and a younger feel to the squad give every chance for this season to be a success.
Everything that optimises those three things is their new £40 million man, with Everton fans praising Tyler Dibling’s debut as the winger is set to have a key role in the squad this season.
But the Toffees manager will have another choice to make, as a transfer looks to be there for the taking.
Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney.
Photo by George Wood/Getty Images
David Moyes could sign Hayden Hackney for £20m this summer at Everton
A central midfielder seems to be the port of call from an Everton perspective this deadline day.
Although there are many options in the middle of the park, with Tim Iroegbunam impressing vs Brighton as well, Moyes might not feel satisfied.
This is where Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney comes in, as the 23-year-old could still have a big twist in his future after impressing in the Championship.
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Everton target Hackney wants to leave Middlesbrough to pursue his Premier League dream, and with the Blues’ interest dating back to June, it’s very possible he could be a new recruit at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
It’s been made clear that £20 million plus is wanted for Hackney, but the Scotsman really doesn’t need to let these funds go to waste.
Harrison Armstrong proves that Hayden Hackney isn’t needed at Everton
There is no denying that Hackney is a promising talent, but the Toffees don’t have to look any further than what they already have.
This is of course talking about Harrison Armstrong, who once again stood out with a brilliant performance in the EFL Cup against Mansfield.
Fans think Armstrong will be a top player, but the current problem is that Moyes is debating whether to loan Armstrong out.
But instead of chucking £20 million+ on another midfielder, the Everton boss should see it as a time to develop the 18-year-old, who not only trumped Hackney’s defensive numbers last season but also showed his creativity on Wednesday night with two assists.
Statistics Harrison Armstrong Hayden Hackney
Successful tackles per 90 1.47 1.33
Clearances per 90 2.52 0.80
Headed clearances per 90 1.38 0.26
Interceptions per 90 1.87 0.71
How Armstrong and Hackney’s defensive statistics compare from 24/25 Championship, as per FotMob
The youngster is five years younger than Hackney, and his ceiling looks a lot higher, so there is no reason for Hackney to join as another young, promising midfielder.
All of Moyes’ focus in the midfield should be on Armstrong, as he is the future of Everton Football Club.