Everton Take Lead in Race to Sign Middlesbrough Midfielder Hayden Hackney

Middlesbrough’s standout midfielder Hayden Hackney appears poised to join Everton after the Toffees initiated talks to secure the 23-year-old’s transfer. Despite strong interest from Manchester United and other Premier League clubs, Hackney is reportedly prioritizing a move to Everton as he nears the final year of his contract at the Riverside Stadium.

Hackney’s rise this season has drawn attention across England. Although Middlesbrough narrowly missed promotion following a play-off final defeat, the midfielder earned recognition as the Championship Player of the Year and a nomination for the PFA Player of the Year. With six goals and eight assists, his attacking contributions have been vital, but it is his vision and creativity in midfield that stand out most.

Manchester United, with Michael Carrick now in charge, remain admirers of the former England U21 international and continue to regard him as a viable option for their midfield rebuild. However, reports suggest United’s priorities are shifting elsewhere, reducing the likelihood of a last-minute push for Hackney. Other Premier League sides such as Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur have expressed interest, but Everton have taken a clear lead in the race.

David Ornstein confirmed Everton’s active negotiations with Middlesbrough and noted that the club is prepared to hold out for a suitable offer given Hackney’s value as the Championship’s top player. The player’s preference for Everton over other suitors strengthens their position.

Additionally, Everton are monitoring Southampton’s Shea Charles, a 22-year-old box-to-box midfielder signed previously by Saints’ sporting director Jason Wilcox. Charles is another Premier League talent on their radar, also linked with Manchester United, indicating Everton’s intent to reinforce their midfield with young, dynamic prospects.

Middlesbrough face the challenge of negotiating a transfer as Hackney enters the final 12 months of his contract, which could pressure them into a sale—but they intend to demand a fair valuation. Everton’s progress signals they are best placed to secure a player whose creativity and work rate can bolster their squad for the upcoming Premier League campaign.