Everton Secure Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough in Major £24m Midfield Transfer Deal
Everton have finalized the signing of midfielder Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough in a deal potentially worth £24 million. The 24-year-old, who was the 2025-26 Championship Player of the Season, has signed a five-year contract to bolster David Moyes' midfield squad ahead of the new season.
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1 MIN READ- Everton secured Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough in a transfer deal worth up to £24 million.
- The 24-year-old midfielder signed a five-year contract after being named the 2025-26 Championship Player of the Season.
- Hackney is an England U21 international who chose Everton over other interested Premier League clubs.
- Manager David Moyes identified Hackney as a priority signing to provide midfield competition for the new campaign.
Everton have bolstered their midfield options by completing the high-profile signing of Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough. The 24-year-old talent has officially moved to Merseyside on a five-year contract in a deal valued at approximately £24 million, with an initial fee of £16.5 million supplemented by potential performance-related add-ons.
Hayden Hackney Brings Championship Excellence to Everton
The midfielder, who was officially recognized as the 2025-26 Championship Player of the Season, had entered the final year of his contract at Riverside Stadium. His arrival comes after a lengthy pursuit by Everton manager David Moyes, who identified the young playmaker as a crucial addition to the squad's central core. Hayden Hackney, an England U21 international who played a pivotal role in the team's European title win in 2025, chose to join the club despite interest from other sides, including Crystal Palace.
During his tenure at Middlesbrough, the versatile midfielder accumulated 154 appearances and scored 16 goals. His development has been closely monitored by top-tier clubs, as he possesses a dynamic playing style that combines robust defensive tackling with the ability to drive forward and support the attack. Moyes noted that the club has a successful history of integrating players from the Championship into the Premier League, expressing confidence that this latest acquisition will follow that trajectory.
Following a successful medical examination, Hayden Hackney expressed his enthusiasm for joining the club's ongoing transformation, specifically highlighting the draw of the stadium developments and the long-term vision presented by the leadership team. His tactical versatility is expected to provide significant depth and competition in the middle of the pitch as the team prepares for the upcoming season. The departure was handled cordially, with the former club acknowledging his contributions and wishing him success in the next stage of his flourishing professional career.
In addition to securing the midfield, Everton remains active in the transfer market, continuing to evaluate various defensive options to strengthen the squad's right-back position. While the focus has shifted to integrating new arrivals, the club’s strategic approach to the summer window remains firmly centered on building a competitive side capable of climbing the table.
