Overview
- Everton have accelerated efforts and are prepared to increase their offer toward the £20 million mark in an attempt to break a summer transfer deadlock for Hayden Hackney.
- Middlesbrough remain firm that they want in excess of £20 million for the 24‑year‑old, rejecting earlier Everton proposals that are reported to have been about £12 million and £15 million.
- Crystal Palace are also in the race and have proposed 21‑year‑old David Ozoh as a potential player‑plus sweetener rather than matching Everton’s near‑cash package.
- Hackney, the Championship’s Player of the Season for 2025/26, is said to prefer Everton and his contract running to only one more season is increasing pressure on Middlesbrough to consider a sale.
- If Everton raises their offer this week, Middlesbrough’s need for summer funds and the player’s contract timeline could push negotiations to a decision and reshape both clubs’ summer plans.