Two of Tottenham’s Premier League rivals have overtaken them in the race for Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney this summer.
The 23-year-old has arguably been the best player in the Championship over the last few years. Unsurprisingly, his future has become the subject of much speculation after Boro failed to win promotion to the Premier League.
It has been widely reported over recent weeks that Spurs are expected to reignite their interest in the 23-year-old, but the Lilywhites are not the ones leading the race for the player.
It has emerged over recent days that Everton are in pole position to land Hackney, and a new update has explained why Roberto De Zerbi’s men may have to act fast to land the midfielder.
Everton and Crystal Palace readying offers for Tottenham target Hayden Hackney
GiveMeSport have now named Spurs as one of Hackney’s admirers, but they say that two other Premier League clubs are more advanced in their interest in the player.
The report claims that Everton have already seen two of their offers rejected by Boro, but they remain in talks with the Championship club over the midfielder.
The Toffees are ready to pay around £20m for Hackney, while the Riverside Stadium hierarchy are holding out for £25m.
While David Moyes’ men remain the front-runners, it is revealed that Crystal Palace are also expected to submit an offer for the former England U21 star, and the Eagles will attempt to persuade him to move to Selhurst Park.
Why Spurs appear unlikely to win the race for Hackney
GiveMeSport say that while Tottenham and Man United both had Hackney on their wishlist, the two clubs are now prioritising other midfield targets over the Boro man.
It is suggested that the likes of Palace may have an advantage over the Red Devils and Spurs, as they can offer Hackney guarantees of regular game time in South London.
Finally, the report adds that Boro have not given up hope of keeping their academy graduate and tying him down to a new deal, but their task has been made difficult by their failure to get promoted to the top-flight.