Hayden Hackney transfer to Everton nears after Middlesbrough breakthrough

Everton are closing in on the signing of Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney after making a significant breakthrough in negotiations over a deal that could eventually be worth £25 million.

The Blues have identified Hackney as one of their priority targets this summer and, after several weeks of discussions, the two clubs are now understood to have agreed the structure of the transfer. Reports suggest only the final details remain before the 24-year-old completes his move to Merseyside.

If the deal is finalised as expected, Hackney would become Everton's second permanent signing of the summer.

Negotiations between Everton and Middlesbrough have accelerated following progress over the weekend.

According to reports, the agreement will see Everton pay an initial £16.5 million, with performance-related bonuses potentially increasing the overall value to £25 million.

The clubs are now optimistic that the transfer can be completed before Middlesbrough's players return for pre-season training later this week.

Hackney had entered the final year of his contract at the Riverside Stadium, making this summer the ideal opportunity for Middlesbrough to secure a substantial transfer fee rather than risk losing him for less in the future.

Hackney established himself as one of the Championship's outstanding performers during the 2025/26 campaign, earning the division's Player of the Year award.

His influence became particularly clear during the closing stages of the season when injury disrupted Middlesbrough's promotion challenge.

The midfielder's fitness was also central to the widely publicised spying controversy involving Southampton, with uncertainty over his availability becoming one of the key issues during the play-off semi-finals.

Although several clubs monitored his situation, Everton moved quickly to establish themselves as frontrunners after receiving encouragement that Goodison Park was the player's preferred destination.

Strengthening central midfield has remained a clear priority throughout the summer window for Everton. Hackney's age, Championship experience and potential for further development fit the profile the club has increasingly targeted.

Hackney's expected arrival is unlikely to be Everton's final midfield addition this summer.

The club continue to assess further reinforcements, particularly with uncertainty surrounding Idrissa Gueye's future.

The experienced Senegal international is currently representing his country at the World Cup while his Everton contract approaches its expiry, leaving David Moyes with important decisions to make before the new season begins.

Hackney would provide a younger long-term option capable of helping reshape Everton's midfield for the years ahead.

Everton will now look to complete the remaining paperwork and medical checks before officially announcing Hackney's arrival. Attention is then expected to turn towards additional midfield recruitment, with the club continuing to monitor the situation surrounding Idrissa Gueye while assessing further options ahead of the Premier League season.

Can Hayden Hackney make the step up from the Championship and become Everton's long-term midfield leader?