Overview
- Everton opened formal talks with Middlesbrough on Friday about signing Hayden Hackney and multiple reports say the player prefers a move to Goodison Park.
- Middlesbrough have publicly dismissed early approaches as “miles off” their valuation and insist they will not sell the Championship Player of the Year for a low fee.
- Hackney has 12 months left on his contract, which gives buyers scope to bargain but also allows Boro to keep him for a final season if offers do not meet their demands.
- Analysts and former club advisers place a realistic price closer to £20m–£30m and say reported offers near £10m would be inadequate for a player of Hackney’s standing.
- The club’s financial position and the EFL’s new Squad Cost Rules make a meaningful sale important, so Boro are expected to push for sell-on protections and a fee that funds squad rebuilding while Everton weigh midfield needs before the window opens.