Overview
- Everton and Middlesbrough have agreed deal terms in principle, with multiple outlets reporting the clubs reached the structure and Hackney has accepted Everton’s contract offer on Monday.
- Reported payments pair an initial guaranteed fee of roughly £16.5m with performance and achievement add‑ons that could lift the total toward about £24.5–25m.
- Hackney is 24 and was named the 2025–26 EFL Championship Player of the Season after a standout campaign, making him a sought domestic midfield prospect.
- Several Premier League clubs tracked Hackney but reports say the player preferred Everton, which helped the Toffees move into pole position after Middlesbrough rebuffed earlier lower offers.
- The transfer, once formally confirmed, will give Everton a creative, home‑grown eligible midfield option while Middlesbrough will receive a significant fee to reinvest as they prepare for the season without their captain.