Hayden HackneyManh Tung, Breaking Media

Everton transfer plan after Hayden Hackney emerges, who could it impact?

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Published on:

01 Jul 2026, 9:40 am

Everton look certain to announce the signing of Hayden Hackney in the next couple of days.

The Toffees have reportedly agreed a deal with Middlesbrough, which will see the in-demand 24-year-old move to Hill Dickinson Stadium.

David Moyes is looking to strengthen several areas of his squad after a 13th-place finish in the Premier League last season.

Central midfield is an area that needs attention, while right-back, and attacking additions are also being considered.

Hackney's arrival will obviously help with that first priority, and other targets are starting to filter in.

But it might be that Hackney is not the only one arriving to boost options in central midfield.

David Moyes eyes more midfield reinforcement after Hayden Hackney

Everton have reached an agreement to pay £16.5million for Hackney.

That initial fee may increase if certain conditions are met, with Everton agreeing to add-ons in the deal.

But according to the Liverpool Echo reporter Joe Thomas, Moyes is interested in adding further numbers to his options in midfield.

The Scot is potentially planning to add a more defensive-minded midfielder to his ranks ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

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

Who could that impact at Everton?

Central midfield is an area that most Toffees fans would acknowledge needs some improvement.

James Garner has established himself as a top Premier League operator, and earned England recognition for his performances last term.

However, Thomas noted there is uncertainty over a couple of other central options, which would necessitate the need for reinforcement, with

Veteran Idrissa Gana Gueye has yet to agree a new contract, though there may be some movement one way or another after he has finished representing Senegal at the World Cup.

But Gueye will turn 37 in September, so even if he does agree new terms, it would be prudent to look for a long-term successor.

Moreover, Tim Iroegbunam's situation remains a little up in the air.

The 23-year-old did a decent job when needed to deputise for Gueye at times last season.

Everton have previously turned down overtures from Lazio, while Hull City and Ipswich Town keeping tabs on the situation.

With Merlin Rohl having also now signed on a permanent deal, Thomas added that Everton may entertain serious offers for Iroegbunam.

Idrissa Gana Gueye

James Garner

Tim Emeka Iroegbunam

Middlesbrough Football Club

Everton Football Club

Hayden Hackney

David Moyes