Everton are reportedly keeping close tabs on Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, with Spanish outlet Fichajes claiming the Toffees have identified him as a serious transfer target ahead of the summer window.

Why Everton Need a Midfield Upgrade

The need for reinforcement is clear. Idrissa Gana Gueye, a key figure in Everton’s deeper midfield positions, is approaching the final weeks of his contract and turns 37 later this year. With James Garner and Tim Iroegbunam as the remaining options, David Moyes will be acutely aware that experience and quality need to be added to the engine room.

Enter Hackney — a press-resistant, deep-lying playmaker who has drawn comparisons to Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich. The 23-year-old is technically polished, comfortable in possession, capable of threading passes between the lines, and contributes defensively too. He’s exactly the profile Moyes needs.

The Transfer Hurdles Ahead

It won’t be straightforward. Middlesbrough have slapped a £35m price tag on Hackney following their failure to gain promotion, and Nottingham Forest and Leeds United are also circling. Competition will be fierce.

Can Everton Afford to Miss Out?

With 49 points from 36 matches and sitting just two points behind eighth-placed Brentford, Everton are on the cusp of a potential European finish — a remarkable turnaround under Moyes.

Should European football arrive at Goodison, squad depth becomes non-negotiable. Hackney could be the shrewd, long-term investment to power that ambition.

The question is whether Everton move first — and fast enough.