Everton are reportedly leading the race to sign Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, according to transfer expert David Ornstein of The Athletic.
Tottenham Hotspur, Crystal Palace, and Manchester United are also credited with an interest in the 23-year-old, making this a competitive transfer pursuit.
However, Manchester United are considered unlikely to make a serious push for Hackney, with Everton currently holding the strongest position in the race.
The player himself is reportedly favouring a move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium, which strengthens Everton’s hand considerably in negotiations.
Everton are expected to hold formal talks with Middlesbrough soon, with the Toffees said to be ready to defeat rival clubs to secure the deal.
Hackney’s situation at Middlesbrough has been shaped by the club’s failure to gain promotion, which has reportedly opened the door for a summer exit.
The midfielder is entering the final year of his contract, and Middlesbrough are valued him at around £28m according to Transfermarkt.
Everton manager David Moyes appears keen to strengthen his midfield options, with Idrissa Gana Gueye set to turn 37 later this year and his current deal expiring at the end of this month.
The club also has James Garner and Tim Iroegbunam as deeper midfield options, though fresh reinforcements appear to be a clear priority heading into next season.
Hackney is comfortable in both defensive midfield and box-to-box roles, and can also provide cover in a more advanced position when required.
The Englishman demonstrated his quality in the Championship this season, registering 13 goal contributions across 41 appearances in all competitions.
He is technically sound, capable of threading passes between the lines, and is considered efficient in his defensive contributions throughout matches.
Middlesbrough may be willing to cash in on the player this summer rather than risk losing him on a free transfer when his contract expires next year.