Everton In The Race For £20m Midfielder: Is He A Good Choice For Moyes? | OneFootball

Everton are still searching for a formula to put seasons of anguish behind them. The last few years have been a rollercoaster ride of emotions, with the club flirting dangerously with relegation. Under David Moyes, the board wants to avoid further scares.

To achieve that, the midfield needs more legs, quality and energy, and that quest has led the Toffees to turn their attention to a leading figure in the Championship. The aim is clear, and that is to strengthen the squad without compromising the financial balance. If that means investing in young players with potential, then it should be the right way.

Meanwhile, Manchester United continue to show signs of stagnation. After several seasons of ups and downs, the Red Devils are still far from the top. Changes of coaches, expensive signings who do not perform and a clear lack of identity mark their present. Aston Villa, on the other hand, have grown and have entered the European conversation. In that context, all three clubs – Everton, United and Villa – have agreed on one name: Hayden Hackney.

The bid for Hackney from Everton

According to Give Me Sport, all three teams are keeping a close eye on Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney. The Championship club are not planning to give him away easily, and they will demand around £20m. At 23, Hackney has earned a reputation as a physical, technical midfielder with plenty of potential. His performances have caught the eye, and his style seems well-suited to the pace of the Premier League.

The player is noted for his progressive passing, vision and composure in pressing situations. He can play as a defensive midfielder or further forward as a box-to-box midfielder. His participation with England Under-21s confirmed what many sensed that he is ready to make the step up. However, some point out that his defensive contribution still needs work. With the freedom to get loose, he can make a difference.

Opinion: A move that could change Everton’s rhythm

Everton cannot remain stuck in the relegation battle. The club needs real solutions and hungry players, and Hackney fits that profile. He has age on his side, experience in a demanding environment like the Championship and already knows what it’s like to compete at an international level. The player’s price tag, while high for a club like Everton, is justified by his potential. In the long term, he could be a profitable signing.

Moreover, Moyes has shown in the past that he knows how to mould young players. Given space and confidence, Hackney could become the engine of the midfield. Of course, the club will need to protect him, surround him with experience and not put all the responsibility on him.

However, if Everton can integrate him well, Hackney could be a key part of their aim for the top half of the table. The risk is there, but it is a necessary risk. The club needs ambition, and Hackney represents a small but brave example of that.