Everton ‘pushing to sign’ Hayden Hackney amid £25m valuation | OneFootball

Everton are reportedly pushing to sign Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, who has also been linked with Sunderland.

TEAMtalk reports that Everton have had bids of £12m and £15m rejected, with Middlesbrough seeking a package of around £25m, and that the Merseyside club currently lead the chase, though no agreement is close.

Hackney, 23, is expected to leave this summer after Boro missed out on promotion to the Premier League. The former England under-21 international 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 are also credited with interest. Everton’s pursuit is described as the most advanced at this stage.

Any move to Sunderland would carry added intrigue given his Middlesbrough ties and the rivalry between the clubs. Everton are looking to reshape their midfield under a new ownership structure.

Hackney has 12 months left on his contract, a factor that could tempt suitors to test Middlesbrough’s stance, though the club still aim to maximise their return.

Everton’s midfield picture may also influence events. Idrissa Gana Gueye is out of contract at the end of the month, and River Plate have held talks over Charly Alcaraz.

Hackney fits the brief as a young, homegrown midfielder with room to develop, although the cost involved and Everton’s advanced interest mean any deal appears difficult for others right now.

Source: Sunderland Echo