Everton’s summer recruitment drive appears to be gathering momentum, with GiveMeSport reporting that the Merseyside club are preparing a third bid for Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney. After two offers were rejected, Everton remain determined to secure the 23 year old’s signature and are reportedly willing to increase their package towards the £20 million mark.
The pursuit speaks volumes about Everton’s evolving strategy. Rather than chasing established names with hefty wages, the club are targeting one of the Championship’s most highly regarded young midfielders, a player whose profile fits the modern Premier League perfectly.
Midfield Target Remains Priority
Hackney has developed into one of Middlesbrough’s standout performers over the last two seasons. Despite injury disrupting the closing stages of the campaign, he still started 38 of Boro’s 46 Championship matches and played a key role in their push towards promotion.
Middlesbrough’s failure to reach the Premier League has inevitably increased speculation around his future. While the club would prefer to keep him, the reality of Championship football often creates opportunities for ambitious top flight sides.
Everton have recognised that opportunity.
The fact they are preparing a third offer suggests confidence that an agreement can eventually be reached, even if Middlesbrough continue to hold firm on their reported £25 million valuation.
Crystal Palace Enter the Race
Competition, however, is growing.
Crystal Palace are expected to submit their own proposal in the coming days, creating a fascinating battle between two clubs looking to strengthen ahead of the new season.
Palace can offer an attractive sporting project. Should either Adam Wharton or Daichi Kamada depart Selhurst Park, opportunities for regular football would increase significantly for any incoming midfielder.
Yet Everton appear to hold an important advantage.
According to the report, Hackney is currently prioritising a…
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