Everton are looking to secure European football for next season under David Moyes, and the club have already identified a top target for the transfer window.
The Toffees saw their hopes of sneaking into a Champions League place all but ended after losing the Merseyside derby to Liverpool thanks to a 100th-minute Virgil Van Dijk header, but can still qualify for the Europa League or Conference League as they sit tenth, just two points behind sixth-placed Chelsea.
Moyes is keen to add more quality and depth to his squad, especially in midfield, and that has seen them take the lead in the race for one of the most sought-after players on the market this summer.
Everton Lead Race for Hayden Hackney
Hayden Hackney
According to TEAMtalk, Everton are currently seen as the frontrunners in the race to sign Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney, with a departure from the Championship outfit looking increasingly likely.
The 23-year-old, who has been compared to Bruno Fernandes, has been crowned the Championship Player of the Year for his performances this season, but his boyhood club have dropped out of the automatic promotion places after some poor form.
With his contract expiring in 2027, it's understood that half the Premier League are looking at the opportunity of signing him, and the Toffees are believed to be at the front of the queue.
“The newly crowned Championship Player of the Year has enjoyed a brilliant campaign, and those watching acknowledge the step he has taken.” Graeme Bailey told TEAMtalk.
“More than half the Premier League are following Hackney. Everton are one of those who have been watching in recent weeks. A lot of midfielders are due to move this summer, and Hackney will likely be part of that.”
Everton Can Make Statement Signing
Hayden Hackney applauding the Middlesbrough supporters
While the Championship's best player may not seem like a statement transfer on paper, for Everton it would show that they are moving in the right direction and are an attractive club after years of problems on and off the pitch.
Hackney is an all-round midfielder who would greatly appreciate playing under a manager like Moyes, who has a reputation for improving players and helping the develop, so the move is likely to appeal to him too.
If Middlesbrough aren't promoted this season, there may never be a better opportunity to get a deal done, and Everton should do all they can to ensure they stay at the front of the queue and get a deal done ahead of next season.
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