Hayden Hackney faces major transfer decision as Premier League interest intensifies

Everton are among a number of Premier League clubs monitoring Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney ahead of a potential summer move, with the 24-year-old expected to attract strong interest after another standout campaign.

Hackney, who is entering the final year of his contract, is widely expected to leave the Riverside following Middlesbrough’s play-off final defeat, which extended their wait for Premier League promotion into a tenth straight season. His performances have reportedly placed him firmly on the radar of top-flight sides, with Everton the first club to make contact this summer, although their initial valuation is said to fall well short of Boro’s demands.

Middlesbrough are holding firm on their valuation and are prepared to sell only if their asking price is met, adding another layer of complexity to the midfielder’s future.

Former Middlesbrough striker Brian Deane has now weighed in on the situation, urging Hackney to make a carefully considered decision about his next step. Speaking about the youngster’s future, Deane stressed that regular playing time should be the main priority, warning that moving to the wrong Premier League club could slow his development if opportunities are limited.

He suggested that while Hackney has already shown he is ready for the next level, his progression depends heavily on choosing a club where he will continue to play consistently. Deane also acknowledged Middlesbrough’s importance to the player’s development, noting that he has been central to their style of play and could still play a major role if he stayed.

However, with contract uncertainty and growing interest from higher-level clubs, Middlesbrough face a key decision: either risk losing him for a reduced fee later or cash in now if the right offer arrives. Deane even raised the possibility of a move followed by a loan spell back, highlighting how complicated the situation could become.

Ultimately, he emphasised that money should not be the deciding factor, insisting that Hackney’s long-term career path and development should come first as he considers a major move this summer.