The negotiations have stopped. Everton want Hayden Hackney, but Middlesbrough are refusing to budge on their asking price. It is turning into a proper summer saga. The Toffees have already seen two distinct bids knocked back by the Teesside club. First came a £12m package, followed quickly by a £15m offer. Both were swatted away without a second thought. According to the Liverpool Echo, formal contact has finally been established between the two boards after weeks of radio silence. The problem? Goodison officials are still miles off Boro’s actual valuation.
Now, the Mail reports that Middlesbrough are demanding a flat £20m. It is a steep figure. Especially for a player with just twelve months left on his current contract. Everton’s latest throw of the dice totalled £18m, structured as £11m upfront with £7m in add-ons. Boro said no. Despite the posturing, sources close to the deal think an agreement is getting closer. This coming week looks massive. Palace want him too, dangling the carrot of Europa League football. Yet Hackney prefers Merseyside.
David Moyes needs reinforcement. Fast. Last term’s 13th-place finish at the new Hill ***** inson Stadium was decent, but the midfield is unravelling. Idrissa Gueye’s deal expires this month. Tim Iroegbunam has suitors elsewhere. Meanwhile, youngster Isaac Heath has already packed his bags for Cambridge United.
MIDDLESBROUGH, ENGLAND – MARCH 11: Hayden Hackney of Middlesbrough in action during the Sky Bet Championship match between Middlesbrough and Charlton Athletic at Riverside Stadium on March 11, 2026 in Middlesbrough, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
He does. Well, mostly.