Everton are prepared to enter a transfer battle to sign Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney this summer, according to TEAMtalk.
The Toffees have had an excellent season so far under David Moyes and currently sit eighth in the Premier League, just three points off a European place despite dealing with a number of injury issues and key players being unavailable in mid-season due to the African Cup of Nations.
But Moyes isn't one to stand still, and the Scot is eyeing a move to strengthen his squad even further for next season, whether they are playing in Europe or not, with a top Championship star identified as a target.
Everton Eyeing Hayden Hackney Move
Hayden Hackney applauding the Middlesbrough supporters
Hackney, who has been described as 'outstanding' and compared to Bruno Fernandes, has enjoyed a sensational campaign in the Championship with Middlesbrough, registering four goals and six assists and helping the team into the automatic promotion places.
The 23-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League in recent years, but a move has never materialised up to this point, however, a deal this summer is surely inevitable, especially if Boro fail to get promoted.
A number of clubs are understood to be interested in a deal for the England youth international, and Everton are ready to battle those sides in order to bring him to the Hill Dickinson Stadium, with the belief that he will be playing in the top-flight next season regardless of which team he ends up at.
Hackney Would be Excellent for Everton
Hayden Hackney celebrating after scoring for Middlesbrough
Hackney has always been a top young midfield prospect, but in recent years he has finally started to fulfill that potential and is now ready to make the step up.
Everton have always been a club where top young talents are given the platform to develop and improve, and Hackney could be the next player to step into that role after the likes of Jarrad Branthwaite, Iliman Ndiaye and James Garner.
A box-to-box midfielder is likely needed with Merlin Rohl only on loan, and Idrissa Gueye now 36, and Hackney fits the bill perfectly.
GIVEMESPORT asked ChatGPT which players he'd likely be competing with for a place in the team, and this was its response:
Competes mainly with James Garner and Idrissa Gueye for deeper midfield roles at Everton
Hackney fits as a deep-lying playmaker, dictating tempo, progressing possession, and supporting build-up.
Likely rotation option initially with long-term starter upside.
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