Everton door opens to sign Hayden Hackney amid Ipswich developments
David Moyes has been keen to recruit a new central midfielder after Abdoulaye Doucoure’s departure at the end of last season.
Everton were looking to bring former Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz back to the Premier League.
The Toffees were handed a huge boost in their bid to sign Luiz when the Brazilian failed to show his face as Juventus returned for pre-season training.
However, with more clubs now entering the race for the 29-year-old, Moyes could decide to go for someone cheaper and younger in Hayden Hackney.
Hackney only wants Premier League move
Everton will want to avoid getting embroiled in a bidding war for Luiz.
Having previously been linked with Hackney earlier in the window, Moyes could now return for the youngster following the latest developments coming from the North East.
The midfielder didn’t travel with the Middlesbrough squad for their 2-2 draw with Rangers due to a reported slight knock to his thigh.
However, many Boro fans are seeing it as a sign that the 23-year-old could be getting closer to leaving in the coming weeks.
Middlesbrough are anticipating bids for the youngster and seem to be preparing for his departure and he has now made it clear that he only wants a Premier League move.
Championship side Ipswich reportedly tried to sign Hackney, but he turned down the offer.
With Boro set to bring in a midfielder of their own in Troyes’ Abdoulaye Kante, now could be the perfect time for Everton to reignite their interest.
Everton must accelerate transfer window plans
Everton have so far struggled in the transfer window.
Though they are stepping up their business with the likes of Malick Fofana now set to join the club, there is still plenty more transfers needed.
| Progressive passes | 433 (Most in Europe) |
| Passes into final third | 356 (Second most in Europe) |
In Hackney, the Toffees will solve their issues of connecting play between their attack and their defence, while also bringing in a talent who could bring in profit in the future.
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