Everton’s protracted pursuit of Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney has become one of the Championship’s defining transfer sagas of the summer, with the prospect of a player swap deal now appearing increasingly remote.
The Toffees have submitted multiple offers for the 24 year old, who was voted the Championship’s best player last season and has entered the final year of his contract at the Riverside Stadium . However, Middlesbrough remain steadfast in their valuation, having turned down at least two bids from Everton and rejecting a package worth up to £20 million .
Valuation Gap Persists
The impasse centres on a significant discrepancy in valuation. Everton have offered packages worth up to £20 million, incorporating guaranteed fees and performance related bonuses, but Middlesbrough are holding out for a deal closer to £25 million . The Teesside club previously accepted a £20 million offer from Ipswich Town for Hackney last summer, only for the player to reject the move .
Crystal Palace have also expressed interest in the midfielder, though the Eagles’ valuation is understood to be lower than Everton’s, with the London club potentially offering David Ozoh as a makeweight . Hackney, however, is believed to favour a move to Everton despite the competition .
Armstrong’s Future Takes Unexpected Turn
Middlesbrough had identified Everton teenager Harrison Armstrong as a potential addition to any deal, viewing the 19 year old as a valuable makeweight to bridge the valuation gap . The midfielder impressed during loan spells at Derby County and Preston North End in the Championship, making 16 Premier League appearances for Everton over the past two seasons .
However, fresh reporting from journalist Alan Nixon has indicated that Armstrong may have his sights set elsewhere. According to Nixon’s Patreon, the young midfielder’s representatives are exploring potential moves to France and Germany as the next step in his development, rather than a return to the Championship.
Complex Negotiations Ahead
Should Armstrong pursue a move abroad, Everton and Middlesbrough will be forced to find alternative ways to close the gap in their valuations of Hackney. The 24 year old is due back at Middlesbrough’s Rockliffe training ground next Thursday for the start of pre season, and is expected to travel with the squad to Portugal unless a major breakthrough occurs in negotiations .
Everton manager David Moyes is keen to strengthen his midfield options, with Idrissa Gueye’s contract expiring at the end of the month and Tim Iroegbunam attracting interest from Ipswich Town . The Toffees continue to lead the race for Hackney’s signature, but the path to agreement appears far from straightforward .
