Everton have completed the signing of midfielder Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough for a fee of at least £16 million. The 24-year-old has put pen to paper on a five-year deal at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Who Is Hayden Hackney?

Hackney is a central midfielder who joined Middlesbrough’s academy at Under-10 level. He went on to make 154 senior appearances for the club, scoring 16 goals. Last season was his best yet — he was named the 2025-26 Championship Player of the Season after a standout campaign.

In 39 league appearances during the 2025-26 season, Hackney scored five goals and registered seven assists. He helped Middlesbrough reach the Championship play-off final in May, though they fell to a 1-0 defeat against Hull City at Wembley.

Why Everton?

Hackney said the decision was straightforward once he heard about Everton’s interest.

“As soon as I spoke to the manager, as soon as I knew Everton were interested, to be honest, it was always going to be Everton,” he said. “It’s such a big club, with the new stadium and the direction it’s going in. I just wanted to be part of that.”

The midfielder also praised manager David Moyes’ track record of developing Championship players at Premier League level. “The manager’s track record of bringing players from the Championship to the Premier League was a massive part of my decision,” Hackney added.

What He Brings to Everton

Hackney describes himself as a box-to-box midfielder who can contribute at both ends of the pitch. “I think fans can expect a bit of everything from me — attacking and defensively,” he said. “I can carry the ball well, arrive late in the box, and hopefully score some goals.”

He also highlighted his work ethic: “It’s a given that you work hard, you run, you make tackles. I’ll be doing that.”

Moyes said Hackney has been on Everton’s radar for some time. “Hayden is a promising young player who we’ve been tracking for some time,” said the Everton boss. “He’s an England Under-21 international who will provide greater competition in midfield, which is something I wanted going into the new season.”

Interest From Other Clubs

Everton were not the only club chasing Hackney. Crystal Palace were also keen on the midfielder, while Nottingham Forest had an approach turned down during the winter transfer window. Hackney ultimately chose Everton, and the club moved quickly to get the deal done.

International Pedigree

Hackney was part of the England Under-21 squad that won the European U21 Championship in 2025. His performances at both club and international level marked him out as one of the most exciting young midfielders outside the Premier League.

What It Means for Everton

The signing signals Everton’s ambition as they prepare for the new Premier League season. Hackney adds depth and quality to the midfield and fits the profile of player Moyes likes to work with — young, hungry, and proven at Championship level.

Middlesbrough, meanwhile, lose a player who had been at the club since childhood. “As the homegrown midfielder enters a new chapter in his flourishing career, everyone at MFC wishes Hayden all the very best for the future,” the club said in a statement.

Everton are also close to agreeing a deal with Chelsea to sign winger Tyrique George following his loan spell last season. The Toffees are clearly building for the future.