Michael Carrick has already explained why Hayden Hackney would be the perfect addition for Everton

Michael Carrick is a huge fan of Hayden Hackney, who has been linked with a move to Everton.

The Toffees have plenty of work to do this summer, and in some sense, they will see the World Cup as a hindrance given their end to the season.

Nonetheless, Everton will be expected to do plenty of transfer business, with midfield reinforcements certainly among the long list of priorities for the coming months.

Reports emerged on Tuesday stating that Hackney is keen on a move to Everton after missing out on promotion with Middlesbrough.

And based on Carrick’s previous comments, he would be the perfect addition for Everton this summer.

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What has Michael Carrick said about Hayden Hackney?

Manchester United have also shown an interest in Hackney, though the midfielder favours a move to Hill Dickinson.

Given the relationship he had with Carrick at Boro, and the fact that he was the manager to really unlock his potential, many would have expected otherwise.

ChampionshipHackney
Games38
Goals and assists12
Chances created per 902.25
Tackles per 901.85

However, Carrick has spoken openly about the talent that Hackney possesses, and in particular, his willingness to get on the ball and make things happen.

The Man United boss once said: “He’s really composed on the ball, always there and always offering for the ball, always wants the ball.”

Everton Hayden Hackney Middlesbrough stats

And that can only be a good thing for Everton.

For context, Hackney averaged 88 touches per 90 for Middlesbrough in the Championship, with 57 completed passes per game.

In comparison, Idrissa Gueye averaged just 58 touches per 90 for Everton last season, with just 39 completed passes.

How much will Hackney cost Everton?

Middlesbrough’s inability to clinch promotion will have certainly lowered the price tag significantly, though it will still require a hefty fee.

The likelihood is that it would take a fee in the region of £25million to prize the midfielder away from Riverside.

The 23-year-old does, however, have just one year left on his deal come the end of June, which could play into Everton’s hands to some extent.

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