Hayden Hackney in action for Middlesbrough, David Moyes of Everton in inset.

Credit: Imago

Everton put package together to seal Hayden Hackney transfer in straight cash

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Published on:

26 Jun 2026, 6:10 am

Everton are finally closing in on the signing of Hayden Hackney.

After weeks of haggling with Middlesbrough, the Championship Player of the Year could be on Merseyside soon.

David Moyes has been vocal of his need for new transfers, and the Friedkin Group are yet to deliver.

Hackney has been the only big-name target so far at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, with Boro holding firm.

With doubts over the futures of Idrissa Gana Gueye and Harrison Armstrong, more is needed in midfield.

Throw in speculation around Iliman Ndiaye and Jack Grealish, and Hackney could be the first of many.

How much will Hayden Hackney cost?

It must be reiterated that Everton have not yet found an agreement to sign Hackney.

But, Alan Nixon has now reported that the Toffees are ahead of Crystal Palace in the chase and are closing in.

It is said that Everton have put together a package, with wages on top, that could hit nearly £20million in straight cash.

Palace are said to value him at less, but could offer David Ozoh in any deal.

Hackney only has one year left on his deal at the Riverside, and Everton hope they'll cash in to improve their squad.

Hayden Hackney's move to Everton: State of play, what we know, when deal could be done

Everton set for midfield transformation

The only guarantee right now is that James Garner will be starting.

Having transformed into an England international while with Everton, he is the heartbeat of this side now and in the future.

But, with Tim Iroegbunam also strongly linked with an exit to Hull City, there aren't many others guaranteed in midfield.

That will appeal to Hackney himself, who could walk straight into Moyes' plans if he is signed soon enough.

A full pre-season at Finch Farm to catch the eye is perfect, and if Everton can hit or get near to Boro's valuation in straight cash, they're onto a winner.

Shea Charles, another Championship midfielder at Southampton, could be going to Leeds for up to £25m, so anything below that could be considered a steal.

Hackney didn't win the player of the year award for nothing ahead of his competitors, and it's time for Everton to just get this done.

Crystal Palace Football Club