Everton ‘to continue’ talks for Hayden Hackney in £25m battle | OneFootball

Hayden Hackney remains at the centre of a Premier League transfer battle, with Everton pursuing the Middlesbrough midfielder, TEAMtalk reports, although a deal is still some way off.

Everton have seen offers of £12m and £15m rejected, with Boro holding out for a package worth around £25m.

The 23-year-old is expected to leave the Riverside this summer after Boro missed promotion. He is a former England under-21 and the Championship’s Player of the Season.

Sunderland have explored his situation in recent months, while Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace are also interested. Everton’s pursuit is considered the most advanced at this stage.

Any Sunderland move would carry added intrigue given Hackney’s Boro background and the rivalry, but Everton appear to be pushing hardest as they reshape their midfield under their new ownership structure.

Hackney has 12 months left on his contract, which may encourage rivals to argue the price should fall, though Middlesbrough are understood to be intent on maximising their return.

Idrissa Gana Gueye is out of contract at the end of the month, and River Plate have held talks over Charly Alcaraz, the report said. Hackney fits the profile, but for Sunderland a move could be difficult for now.

Source: Sunderland Echo