Everton has completed the signing of midfielder Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough on a five-year contract, with the deal reportedly worth an initial £16.5 million, potentially rising to £24.5 million with add-ons. The 24-year-old was named Championship Player of the Year last season.
Hackney stated that manager David Moyes was a significant factor in his decision to move to Merseyside. "The manager's track record of bringing players from the Championship to the Premier League was a massive part of my decision," Hackney said. "Hopefully I can be the next one to do it successfully for Everton."
He expressed his view that the move is a good fit, adding, "I think it's a given that you work hard, you run, you make tackles. I'll be doing that. I think fans can expect a bit of everything from me – attacking and defensively. I think I can carry the ball well, arrive late in the box, and hopefully score some goals. I think there's plenty more to come from me. Obviously, I haven't played in the Premier League yet, so once I get used to that I think I can kick on from there."
The summer transfer window, which opened on July 1, will remain open until September 1, signaling a busy period for clubs aiming to secure signings ahead of the upcoming season. In parallel developments, Brentford has submitted an improved offer for Burnley winger Jaidon Anthony. The 26-year-old scored nine goals and provided four assists in all competitions last season, and a move would keep him in the Premier League following Burnley's relegation.
