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

Hayden Hackney's move to Everton has simmered down in recent days, though a move to the Toffees is still very much on the cards.

The Toffees emerged as an early frontrunner for the 23-year-old earlier in June, with the midfielder set to depart Middlesbrough this summer.

This came after the Redcar-born star failed to achieve promotion with his boyhood side, as Boro lost in the Play-off final to Hull City.

It was expected that Hackney would have stayed at the Riverside Stadium had Kim Hellberg's side made the leap to the promised land, but he has no intentions of playing in the second tier again next season.

Everton are still in the running to sign Hackney, as Goodison News takes a look at the state of play regarding the transfer.

Hayden Hackney to Everton: What we know

Everton are said to be keen on signing a long-term replacement for Idrissa Gana Gueye, and it was a priority for David Moyes heading into the summer.

The Toffees quickly turned their attention to Hackney, and as revealed by The Northern Echo, Hill Dickinson is the player's preferred destination.

Everton have had two approaches to sign the Englishman turned down by Boro, but are said to be preparing a third bid.

Middlesbrough's valuation of their key playmaker is set at £25m despite having just 12 months left on his current deal.

Everton's closest competition appears to be Crystal Palace, as the Daily Mail reported that the Eagles were preparing a £20m offer for Hackney, more than anything the Toffees have submitted as of yet.

However, no reports have confirmed that Crystal Palace have submitted an offer yet, leaving Everton in the best position to sign him.

When a deal could be done for Hackney

Reports have suggested that Boro are happy to let Hackney run down his deal at the Riverside, but given their Championship status, it could be a tactic to get teams to pay up.

Middlesbrough are said to be wanting to sign two new midfielders this summer, and there's no doubt that they will have any potential money from Hackney's sale firmly in their thoughts.

With that said, it's in the Teessiders' best interest to wrap up a deal for Hackney as soon as possible, as it will cause less disruption to both themselves and Everton this summer.