Everton Prepare Third £20m Bid for Hayden Hackney

Everton are preparing a third bid for Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, with the package moving towards the £20 million mark after two offers were rejected. The Merseyside club’s persistence signals a shift toward targeting young Championship talent rather than established stars with high wages. Hackney, 23, started 38 of Middlesbrough’s 46 Championship matches over the last two seasons. He played a key role in the club’s push for promotion despite an injury‑hit finish to the campaign. Middlesbrough’s failure to reach the Premier League has intensified speculation about his future. While the club would prefer to retain him, the economics of Championship football often create opportunities for top‑flight sides. Crystal Palace are expected to submit their own proposal in the coming days. Palace could offer regular football if Adam Wharton or Daichi Kamada depart, increasing the appeal of any incoming midfielder. Hackney is currently prioritising a move to Everton’s successors at Goodison Park, a boost for manager David Moyes and the recruitment team. Moyes’ interest aligns with the club’s broader recruitment plan. Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United are monitoring Hackney but have not accelerated their interest. Both clubs are presently focused on Bournemouth’s Alex Scott, another highly regarded English prospect. Everton’s summer strategy appears to centre on building a younger, sustainable squad, and Hackney’s technical quality, work rate and tactical intelligence fit that vision. The reported £20 million fee reflects the premium placed on English talent, and competition from Palace, Tottenham and Manchester United reinforces the player’s rising profile.