Everton could seal £15m Hackney transfer in ‘one of the best’ reveal – Exclusive
Everton Eye Bargain Move for Middlesbrough Midfield Star Hayden Hackney
Middlesbrough’s rising talent Hayden Hackney has emerged as a serious target for Everton, with the club reportedly lining up a potential move for the Championship standout. After wrapping up the signing of Thierno Barry from Villarreal on Wednesday (9 July), Toffees boss David Moyes is now turning his attention to reinforcing the midfield – an area the club is determined to strengthen ahead of the new season.
Midfield reinforcements have been a top priority for Everton during this window, with the likes of Benfica’s Florentino Luis and Middlesbrough’s Hackney both featuring prominently on their shortlist. Although Aston Villa captain John McGinn has also been linked with a move to Merseyside, that particular deal appears increasingly unlikely due to the player’s high valuation and pivotal role at Villa Park.
Instead, Everton are believed to be pursuing a more financially prudent option in Hackney, whose performances in the Championship have not gone unnoticed. The 23-year-old has been closely monitored by scouts at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, and a formal approach could be on the horizon as Moyes continues to reshape his squad for the Premier League challenge ahead.
Ian Darke: Hackney Has Premier League Potential
Respected football commentator Ian Darke has shared his thoughts on Hackney’s suitability for the Premier League, suggesting the midfielder could be a smart signing for the Toffees – though not necessarily a guaranteed starter from day one.
Speaking exclusively to Goodison News, Darke said:
> “He is one of the best central midfielders in the Championship. He’s a high-energy, box-to-box type who could very well be ready for the leap to Premier League football. But with players like James Garner and Idrissa Gueye already in the squad, Hackney would need to earn his place.”
When asked about the possible transfer fee involved, Darke estimated that the move could be completed for a reasonable sum in today’s market:
> “Somewhere in the region of £15 million to £20 million would likely be enough to get him.”
Why Hackney Could Be a Steal for the Toffees
Hackney enjoyed an impressive 2023/24 season with Middlesbrough, making 43 league appearances and registering eight goal contributions. Beyond his attacking returns, his overall influence in midfield was pivotal. He boasts a tackle success rate of 60.2% and logged over 3,700 minutes of action across the campaign.
Moreover, the midfielder was part of England’s victorious Under-21 European Championship squad, featuring in four of their six matches en route to lifting the trophy for a second straight time. His ability to receive the ball under pressure, drive forward, and distribute effectively from deep positions makes him a particularly attractive option for Moyes, who values both grit and creativity in central areas.
Hackney’s attributes – a blend of composure, technical quality, and work ethic – would complement Everton’s existing midfield setup and provide healthy competition. At just 23, he also fits the long-term vision of the Friedkin Group, who are now in charge of Everton and eager to build a youthful, dynamic squad capable of sustainable success.
Interest Growing Across Europe
Everton are not alone in their admiration for Hackney. Fellow Premier League sides West Ham and Fulham are also said to be monitoring the situation closely, while European clubs including Porto, Bayer Leverkusen, and Stuttgart have expressed interest as well. If the Toffees are to land Hackney, they may need to act swiftly to fend off competition from both domestic and continental rivals.
Still, the suggested price point of around £15–£20 million is well within reach for Everton’s new ownership, and given the player’s potential and current ability, it could prove to be one of the bargains of the summer.
Whether a deal can be struck in the coming weeks remains to be seen, but one thing is clear – Hackney would represent a smart, exciting addition to the Everton midfield and could play a key role in their efforts to climb back up the Premier League table.