Everton sign midfielder Hackney from Middlesbrough

Crystal Palace were also interested in Hackney, who was part of the England squad that won the European U21 title in 2025, but he favoured a move to Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Nottingham Forest also had an approach for him turned down late in the winter transfer window.

"Hayden is a promising young player who we've been tracking for some time, and I'm looking forward to working with him," said Everton boss Moyes.

"We've had a track record over the years of identifying players in the Championship who have gone on to do really well for us and been good investments. We hope that will be the case with Hayden, too.

"He's an England Under-21 international who will provide greater competition in midfield, which is something I wanted going into the new season."

Hackney made 39 league appearances for Boro last season, scoring five goals and registering seven assists.

"The manager's track record of bringing players from the Championship to the Premier League was a massive part of my decision," said Hackney. "Hopefully I can be the next one to do it successfully for Everton.

"It feels like a good fit for me, for sure. I think it's a given that you work hard, you run, you make tackles. I'll be doing that.

"I think fans can expect a bit of everything from me - attacking and defensively. I think I can carry the ball well, arrive late in the box, and hopefully score some goals."