Everton have signed Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough for an initial £16m fee, securing the Championship Player of the Season on a five-year contract. The 24-year-old midfielder, who came through Boro's youth system, leaves after helping them reach the play-off final last season. Hackney made 154 appearances and scored 16 goals for Middlesbrough, establishing himself as a key figure in their midfield.

Speaking after the move, Hackney said joining Everton felt inevitable once manager David Moyes showed interest. 'It's such a big club, with the new stadium and the direction it's going in,' he explained. The midfielder's contract was down to his final year, making this summer's transfer inevitable for the promoted Championship side seeking to rebuild.

Middlesbrough released a statement wishing Hackney well, acknowledging his development from their academy. 'As the homegrown midfielder enters a new chapter in his flourishing career, everyone at MFC wishes Hayden all the very best,' they said. Everton now have a ready-made replacement in midfield as they prepare for their upcoming campaign.