Everton are moving towards a deal for Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, according to the BBC, in a transfer that would underline the club’s intent to add more control and intensity in the middle of the pitch.
The 24-year-old has built a strong reputation at Middlesbrough and was a central figure in their push for promotion last season. That campaign ultimately ended in disappointment at Wembley, where Boro lost to Hull City in the Championship play-off final last month, but Hackney’s role throughout the run-in appears to have strengthened interest in his services.
Why Hackney fits Everton’s needs
For Everton, a move for Hackney makes sense in football terms as well as squad-building terms. The Toffees have often needed greater composure and progression in midfield, especially when matches become stretched and possession is harder to sustain. A player with Hackney’s profile offers the possibility of improving the team’s ability to move the ball through the thirds rather than relying too heavily on direct transitions.
That is particularly relevant for supporters who have watched Everton spend long periods under pressure in recent seasons. Adding a midfielder who is described as highly rated and who has already carried responsibility in a promotion chase suggests a signing aimed at raising the technical level of the squad, not just adding depth.
What the move could mean for both clubs
From Middlesbrough’s perspective, losing a player who was integral to their play-off push would be a setback, especially after coming so close to a return to the Premier League. The challenge for Boro would be to replace not only Hackney’s quality but also the consistency and influence he brought during a demanding campaign.
For Everton, the deal would be another sign that the club are looking to shape a more balanced midfield ahead of the new season. While the BBC report does not set out the full structure of the agreement, the fact that talks are close indicates momentum in a transfer that could suit both the player and the buying club if completed.
Supporters on both sides will now be watching closely. Everton fans will want to know whether Hackney can translate his Championship form to the Premier League, while Middlesbrough followers will be hoping any departure is matched by smart reinvestment. Either way, this is the sort of move that can have a wider effect than the fee alone, because it speaks to the direction of both squads heading into a new campaign.
Source note: This article was prepared using publicly available information from BBC Sport and expanded with editorial context.
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