Everton have completed the signing of Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough after agreeing a deal worth up to £25 million, with the Championship Player of the Season committing his future to the Merseyside club on a five-year contract.
The Toffees will pay an initial £17 million, while a further £8 million in performance-related add-ons could take the total value of the transfer to £25 million. Hackney arrives after choosing Everton ahead of interest from several other Premier League clubs.
Hackney explains why Everton was the obvious choice
The 24-year-old admitted the decision became straightforward once Everton’s interest became concrete, revealing that conversations with the club’s manager played a decisive role.
“As soon as I spoke to the manager, as soon as I knew Everton were interested, to be honest, it was always going to be Everton.
“It’s such a big club, with the new stadium and the direction it’s going in, I just wanted to be part of that.”
Hackney also highlighted the manager’s reputation for helping Championship players establish themselves in the Premier League.
“The manager’s track record of bringing players from the Championship to the Premier League was a massive part of my decision as well. Hopefully, I can be the next one to do it successfully for Everton.” Hayden Hackney, Everton TV
Championship star earns Premier League opportunity
Hackney arrives at Everton after an outstanding campaign with Middlesbrough, where he played a leading role in helping the club reach the Championship play-off final.
Although an injury ruled him out for the final two months of the regular season, he recovered in time to make his final appearance for Boro from the bench at Wembley.
The midfielder’s performances throughout the campaign were recognised with the Championship Player of the Season award, underlining his growing reputation as one of England’s brightest midfield talents.
| Career Stats (Middlesbrough) | Hayden Hackney |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 154 |
| Goals | 16 |
| Contract at Everton | Five years |
| Transfer value | Up to £25m |
Source: Club records and official transfer announcement – 1 July 2026.
Ready for the Premier League challenge
Hackney believes the timing is perfect to make the biggest move of his career after progressing through Middlesbrough’s academy and establishing himself as one of the Championship’s standout midfielders.
He believes last season prepared him for the demands of Premier League football and is eager to prove himself during pre-season.
“It feels like signing for Everton is ideal timing. I feel that last season really developed me more as a player in all aspects of my game.
“There are some unbelievable players here and the competition is going to be tough but I’m ready to get going and to compete.”
Everton have increasingly targeted young British talent capable of developing into long-term first-team players. Hackney fits that strategy while also arriving with more than 150 senior appearances despite still being only 24.
However, adapting to the pace and physical demands of the Premier League will remain his biggest challenge during the opening months of the campaign.
What's next?
Hackney will report for pre-season immediately after completing his move, having made it clear he wanted to be involved from day one with his new teammates.
Everton's coaching staff will now look to integrate the midfielder into their tactical plans ahead of the new Premier League season, with the club expected to remain active in the transfer market as they continue building a squad capable of pushing further up the table.
Can Hayden Hackney make the step up to the Premier League and become Everton's next midfield star?
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