Credit: Imago

Cameron Smith

Tue 2 June 2026 8:04, UK Updated Tue 2 June 2026 8:25, UK

Everton are looking to strengthen after a dismal end to the 2025-26 Premier League season.

After spending large parts of the term in the race for Europe, the Toffees were blown out of the battle after the international break.

Picking up three points from their final seven, David Moyes’ side would limp over the line, falling to Tottenham on the final day.

As a result, the pressure has mounted on Moyes, who simply has to deliver next term.

And looking at that, they may have a head start over their rivals, with the Blues in pole position to land Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney.

Everton shock emerges in fresh Hayden Hackney update

Named as the Championship Player of the Season, Hackney proved incredible as Boro reached the play-off final.

Following the 1-0 defeat to Hull at Wembley, the midfielder has been linked with multiple Premier League clubs, including Tottenham and Manchester United.

Now, David Ornstein has reported that the Toffees are leading the race to secure the signing this summer, with Hackney himself favouring a move to Merseyside.

Tottenham and Crystal Palace are also said to be interested.

🚨 Everton currently lead race to sign Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough. Coveted midfielder favours #EFC & if preference confirmed, club talks will follow. #THFC + #CPFC also high among contenders. #MUFC like 23yo but not expected to pursue @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/4zUeH40c3C

— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) June 2, 2026

With the ongoing Everton reset in mind, Hackney is not set to cost an arm and a leg.

It is said that his signature could well be good value for money, with just 12 months left on his contract, while he is expected to leave for a lower fee after Middlesbrough missed out on promotion.

Hayden Hackney signature may be a huge statement for Everton

At the back end of the campaign, the Toffees struggled to match their pre-international break form.

During this period, the holes in Moyes’ squad were exposed, while his own stubbornness at times led the Scotsman to stick with his trusted favourites despite their poor form.

In Hackney, there is serious long-term value, helping to build on a side that showed glimpses throughout the season, but ultimately limped to the finish line.

With the season’s end in mind, it has been clear for months that summer reinforcements are needed.

Hackney is not just a statement for the window as a whole, but a real show of intent in the early stages.

For players set to come in ahead of next term, such a coup early on could be the factor to convince targets that the Toffees do mean business, and are looking to throw themselves back among the continental race.

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Goodison Park.