Everton ‘pushing to sign’ Hayden Hackney amid £25m tussle as talks continue | OneFootball

Everton are pursuing Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, with talks said to be ongoing and rival clubs monitoring the situation. According to TEAMtalk, the Merseyside club are some distance from an agreement.

The report said bids of £12m and £15m have been rejected, with Boro seeking a package of about £25m for one of their key assets.

Hackney, 23, is expected to leave the Riverside Stadium this summer after the club missed out on promotion to the Premier League. The former England under-21 midfielder was named the Championship’s Player of the Season.

Sunderland have explored his situation in recent months, while Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace have also taken an interest. Everton’s pursuit is described as the most advanced at this stage. A Sunderland move would carry extra intrigue given Hackney’s Boro background and the rivalry.

Hackney has 12 months left on his contract, a factor that could influence negotiations. Some suitors may feel that should temper the price, but Middlesbrough are understood to be determined to maximise their return.

Everton’s midfield picture may also be a factor as they look to reshape under their new ownership structure. Idrissa Gana Gueye is out of contract at the end of the month, and the report added River Plate have held talks over Charly Alcaraz. Hackney fits the brief of a young, homegrown midfielder, but the finances involved and Everton’s position could make a move difficult for others right now.

Source: Sunderland Echo