Everton complete the signing of Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough | OneFootball

Everton have announced the signing of English midfielder Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough.

Everton manager David Moyes identified the 24-year-old as one of those he wants at the Hill Dickinson Stadium club, and he has signed a five-year contract with the Toffees.

Hackney was one of the best players in the Championship last term and is now ready to prove himself in the Premier League with the Blues.

The Boro academy graduate made 137 appearances in the division and is aware that hitting the ground running in the top-flight will not be a piece of cake.

Hackney is hoping to break into the Everton starting XI but he knows that moving to the top of Moyes’ pecking order ahead of his current options in the position could prove tricky.

He knows the competition ahead of him and has showered praise on the midfielders.

“It feels like signing for Everton is ideal timing,” Hackney said during his official unveiling.

“I feel that last season really developed me more as a player in all aspects of my game.

“Obviously, I thank Middlesbrough for the time that I was there, which was unbelievable, but now I feel ready and feel it’s time to make the change and I’m really looking forward to it.

“There are some unbelievable players here and the competition is going to be tough but I’m ready to get going and to compete.”

Moyes has succeeded in getting the best out of players who swapped the Championship for the Premier League in the past.

Everton fans will hope his proven track record will come in handy as Hackney looks to quickly acclimatise to the demands of the top-flight.

He is the club’s second signing of the summer after they activated the obligation to buy midfielder Merlin Rohl following his season-long loan from SC Freiburg last term.

The Toffees are also looking to get a deal for Chelsea winger Tyrique George over the line before the end of the week.

The youngster impressed on loan at the Merseyside club in the second half of last season and talks are ongoing over a permanent return.