Hayden Hackney backed to have Michael Olise-esque impact at Everton
New Everton signing Hayden Hackney is being backed to follow in the footsteps of several EFL stars and make himself a success in the Premier League.
The Toffees completed the signing of Hackney on a five-year deal from Middlesbrough last week.
It is reported that Everton agreed to pay an initial £16million for Hackney, though the total transfer could reach £24m.
Hackney was a much sought-after player after impressing for Boro in the second tier in recent seasons.
Everton stole a march on their top-flight rivals to seal the deal, with the likes of Leeds United and Sunderland having been credited with an interest.
A prominent Sky Sports pundit is now tipping Hackney to have a huge impact at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Everton new boy Hayden Hackney has some great examples to follow
Signing players from the Championship can obviously bring with it an element of risk.
The step up from the second tier to the Premier League is a big one, and not every Championship talent makes the step up.
Several have, though, with the likes of Michael Olise, Jarrod Bowen, and Eberechi Eze having educations in the EFL.
Don Goodman, speaking to talkSPORT in quotes reported by the Liverpool Echo, is confident Hackney can emulate those who came before him.
“He was the best player in the Championship, and I think Everton have got a real player on their hands. Honestly, I rate him really, really highly," Goodman said.
"I have no doubt he's going to be a success in the Premier League, in the same way that others like Michael Olise, Eberechi Eze and Adam Wharton have.
"I'm not saying he's automatically going to reach those exact world-class heights, but these are young players of a similar age to him who made that jump to the Premier League and have absolutely shone."
What else do Everton need this transfer window?
As well as the arrival of Hackney, Everton have completed permanent deals for Merlin Rohl and Tyrique George this summer.
But there is still plenty of work going on behind the scenes to strengthen David Moyes' squad before the return of the Premier League.
One top priority is right-back, with Nathan Patterson likely to be sold if a buyer can be found after struggles with form and injury.
A new striker is high on David Moyes' wishlist too, with Beto and Thierno Barry struggling for regular consistency.
More wide players could be targeted too, especially if Iliman Ndiaye is sold.
Jack Grealish returning would be the dream, but Manchester City might be ready to offer him another go following the arrivsal of Enzo Maresca.