Everton is progressing toward a total £25 million deal to sign Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, with negotiations expected to wrap up this week as of Monday, June 29, 2026.
The Merseyside club made the 23-year-old Championship Player of the Season a primary summer transfer target under manager David Moyes.
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According to reports from The Telegraph, the proposed transfer fee includes significant add-ons after Middlesbrough initially rejected at least three prior offers from the Toffees.
Hackney entered the final year of his contract with Middlesbrough after the club failed to secure Premier League promotion, losing the Championship play-off final to Hull City.
While multiple top-flight clubs expressed interest in the academy graduate, Hackney reportedly prioritized a move to Goodison Park, accelerating discussions over the weekend.
If finalized, Hackney will become the second midfield addition for Everton this summer following the permanent £18 million signing of Merlin Rohl.
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Middlesbrough Prepares for Life Without Hackney
Middlesbrough is already preparing for life without Hackney by identifying potential replacements in the transfer market.
As reported by The Telegraph, Middlesbrough opened separate talks with Leicester City regarding a potential move for 25-year-old midfielder Oliver Skipp.
However, Middlesbrough remains hesitant to meet Leicester City's current £15 million asking price for the former England youth international.
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Skipp previously joined Leicester City from Tottenham Hotspur for £20 million in 2024 but suffered consecutive relegations down to League One.
