Everton leads race for Hackney as Man Utd prioritise other midfield targets

Hayden Hackney has emerged as one of the summer’s most coveted midfielders, and Everton are currently leading the chase for his signature ahead of Manchester United, Tottenham, and Crystal Palace.

The 23-year-old Middlesbrough playmaker was named Championship Player of the Season for 2025-26 after helping Boro reach the play-off final, where they were beaten by Hull City. That defeat is now expected to trigger his departure, with just one year remaining on his contract potentially making him available for as little as £15 million — though Middlesbrough may yet opt to keep him for the final year of his deal rather than sell at that price.

According to The Athletic, Everton is Hackney’s preferred destination at this stage. Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick, who managed Hackney at Middlesbrough, has been described as championing a pursuit of the midfielder. However, United are understood to be prioritising other midfield additions, making a move for Hackney less likely despite Carrick’s personal interest.

United have already agreed a £39 million deal for Atalanta midfielder Ederson — £35 million up front with £4 million in add-ons — with the Brazilian set to become the first signing of the Carrick era after completing his medical and signing a contract until 2030. The club are also pursuing Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, though Manchester City are currently favourites to land him. Mateus Fernandes, Carlos Baleba, and Sandro Tonali are among other midfielders with Premier League experience on United’s radar as they look to add up to three new players in the position this summer.

Tottenham and Crystal Palace remain serious contenders for Hackney, meaning Everton will need to move decisively if they are to secure a player widely regarded as the standout performer outside the top flight this season.