Everton are continuing to negotiate with Middlesbrough over a deal for their star midfielder Hayden Hackney. The Championship play-off finalists are demanding a higher fee than the £20m they agreed with Ipswich Town last summer, which Hackney rejected to stay at his boyhood club.
Middlesbrough Demand Higher Fee
According to reports, Middlesbrough are holding out for a bid of £20m plus £5m in bonuses for the Championship Player of the Season. Everton's latest offer of £18m, comprising £11m guaranteed and £7m in bonuses, was knocked back. The ECHO understands that Hackney wants to join Everton despite interest from Crystal Palace and Hull City.
Some observers believed a fee of £10-£12m would be fair given Hackney is entering the final 12 months of his contract and Middlesbrough missed out on promotion. However, Boro are willing to risk losing him on a free transfer if their asking price is not met, such is his importance to their Premier League hopes.
Everton's Midfield Options
Everton are well-stocked in central midfield, but Idrissa Gueye's contract expires at the end of the month, and Tim Iroegbunam is attracting interest from Ipswich.
Isaac Heath Departs for Cambridge United
Young winger Isaac Heath has left Everton to join newly-promoted League One side Cambridge United for an undisclosed fee. The 21-year-old enjoyed a superb loan spell at League Two Accrington Stanley, winning three club awards. Heath joined Everton at age 13 and progressed through the academy, becoming a regular for the under-21s and winning the Under-21s Player of the Season award in 2024/25. He also featured in David Moyes' pre-season squad in summer 2025.
