Everton could seal £15m Hackney transfer in ‘one of the best’ reveal – Exclusive
Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney could be the next signing through the door at Everton.
David Moyes is keen to add to his squad after sealing the transfer of Thierno Barry on Wednesday (9 July) from Villarreal.
Midfield is an area that needs an upgrade, and the Merseysiders have been linked with the likes of Florentino Luis and the Boro ace.
Aston Villa maestro John McGinn is another name that has been touted as a potential addition for the Blues, but that currently looks unlikely.
Everton set to seal bargain Hackney deal
The Hill Dickinson Stadium outfit have checked on the availability of Hackney as they look to bolster their midfield.
Iconic commentator Ian Darke thinks that while the 23-year-old would be a good signing, he would not be guaranteed a starting spot.
Speaking exclusively to Goodison News, he said: “He is one of the best central midfielders in the Championship.
“He is a box-to-box, high-energy type that may well be ready for the step up to the Premier League.
“They have James Garner and Idrissa Gueye in possession, so he will have to play his way in, if a deal happens.”
Asked how much he would cost, Darke said: “£15million, maybe, £20m.”
Hackney could be a coup for Everton
The Teesside star was instrumental in England Under-21’s European Championship success, featuring in four of the six matches as the Three Lions won the competition for a second successive time.
He is a progressive defensive midfielder who can receive the ball under pressure and find a teammate, which would suit what Moyes wants from his engine room options.
| Stats (Championship) | Hackney |
| Matches | 43 |
| Goals/Assists | 8 |
| Tackles won | 60.2% |
| Minutes played | 3,794 |
The Toffees face competition from West Ham, Fulham, Porto, Bayer Leverkusen and Stuttgart, so it would be a coup if they could pull off a deal, especially ahead of their Premier League rivals.
The price point that Darke has suggested would not be too much for the Friedkin Group, so this deal may have legs in the next few weeks.
It remains to be seen whether the L4 outfit can secure Hackney, but it would be an exciting signing if they can find an agreement with the club and player.
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