Everton have emerged as frontrunners in the race to sign Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, with growing uncertainty surrounding the Championship side’s promotion
Everton Lead Race for Hayden Hackney as Middlesbrough Face Promotion Pressure
Everton have emerged as frontrunners in the race to sign Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, with growing uncertainty surrounding the Championship side’s promotion hopes intensifying transfer speculation.
The 21-year-old has been a standout performer for Middlesbrough this season, but his recent absence through injury has coincided with a sharp dip in form for Kim Hellberg’s side. Hackney has not featured since the 1-1 draw with Bristol City on March 14 due to a calf problem, leaving a noticeable void in midfield.
Middlesbrough’s promotion push has faltered in recent weeks, with the club now sitting fifth in the Championship table after a run of seven games without a win. Their latest setback came in a 2-2 draw against Ipswich Town, a result that further dented hopes of securing automatic promotion.
Earlier in the campaign, Middlesbrough looked well-positioned to challenge for a top-two finish alongside Coventry City. However, their recent slump has left them facing the prospect of navigating the uncertainty of the playoff route — or potentially missing out altogether.
This shift in momentum has alerted several Premier League clubs, with Everton reportedly leading the chase for Hackney’s signature. The Merseyside club are believed to be monitoring his situation closely and could make a move if Middlesbrough fail to secure promotion.
Coventry City are also said to be interested, but Everton’s top-flight status and financial strength may give them a crucial edge in negotiations.
Hackney, widely regarded as one of the Championship’s most promising young midfielders, could be tempted by the opportunity to test himself in the Premier League. His potential departure would represent a significant blow to Middlesbrough, particularly given his influence in dictating play and driving the team forward from midfield.
With just three games remaining in the season, Middlesbrough’s fate remains uncertain. Whether they can rediscover form and secure promotion could ultimately determine if they can hold onto one of their most prized assets — or if Everton will succeed in bringing him to Goodison Park this summer.
