Middlesbrough explore replacement as Hayden Hackney and Everton continues
Hayden Hackney is the first real target that Everton have moved on this summer, but with no rewards yet.
The Middlesbrough captain missed out on Premier League promotion in the play-off final last season, and looks destined to move.
Hackney won the Championship Player of the Year award, and looks set to leave the Riverside behind for the Premier League.
Everton moved quickly to make sure it was with them, but they have yet to turn that into concrete success.
David Moyes is pushing for new additions, with West Ham's Jarrod Bowen another big-name target.
And as Everton move on Hackney, Middlesbrough are looking at contingency plans already.
What is the latest on Hayden Hackney to Everton?
Things appear to have gone quiet for now.
Everton bid up to £18million to kickstart negotiations, but that was swiftly rejected by Boro.
With Crystal Palace and others also sniffing around, it's a surprise that more movement has followed.
The Daily Mail has now reported that Middlesbrough have identified Hibernian's Josh Mulligan as a possible replacement.
It is said that they are exploring options as talks with Everton continue over Hackney, with no other clubs mentioned.
What does Everton midfield look like now?
It is set to be a summer of change.
With Hackney possibly coming in, the likes of Idrissa Gueye could face questions over his future, given his contract is up next week.
Talks are continuing, but he could have a path away from Merseyside, with James Garner guaranteed to start.
Tim Iroegbunam is another who could move on, with Merlin Rohl surely set for a bigger role from next season.
Hackney wouldn't be expected to slot in straight away, but Moyes can't make the same mistake of signing a young talent and not using him whatsoever.
Surely, we have all seen the mistake made with Tyler Dibling, who hasn't been given anywhere near enough time.
If Hackney is signed, he needs to be used consistently, and with Boro now actively looking at replacements, it could be time to bite the bullet.
Everton spent decent money last season only to fail at the final hurdle, so the Friedkins need to do exactly the same this time around.