Tottenham Hotspur have now intensified their efforts to secure the signature of Hayden Hackney despite Everton’s interest.
Tottenham Hotspur do need a midfield refresh following the departure of Joao Palhinha and the expiration of Yves Bissouma’s contract, with no renewal in sight.
In the last couple of weeks, reports have linked Spurs with several midfielders, including Middlesbrough’s Hayden Hackney.
The Championship midfielder has been on Tottenham’s radar for some time, with interest dating back to last summer.
Spurs were said to have renewed their interest in Hackney once again this year as they continue their search for midfield reinforcement.
However, Everton is the club reported to be in pole position to land Hackney.
Tottenham step up Hayden Hackney transfer interest
Spurs Web reported yesterday that Everton’s bid fell short of Middlesbrough’s valuation of the midfielder, and that has handed a boost to the Lilywhites, who remain keen.
According to Sports Boom, Tottenham have now approached Hayden Hackney in a bid to ‘beat ‘hijack’ Everton’s move.
Everton, however, remain firmly in the race after holding talks with the midfielder over a potential move to Merseyside.
Tottenham are now understood to have “ramped up their interest” and hope to beat their rivals by convincing Hackney that north London is the perfect stage for his top-flight breakthrough.
Still, competition for the midfielder’s signature remains fierce, with Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace also circling over the youngster.
Spurs see Hayden Hackney as rebuild option
Just like in the pursuit of Jan Paul van Hecke, Hackney is also entering the final year of his contract, which leaves Middlesbrough in a position where they may have to sell rather than risk losing him on a free transfer next summer.
Spurs Web has since reported that Hackney is valued at £25m, and that could prove enough to convince Middlesbrough to cash in on the midfielder.
It is explained that the disappointment at Wembley, where Middlesbrough lost the play-off final to Hull City, has only strengthened Hackney’s resolve to move to the Premier League.
Spurs are said to view Hackney as a player capable of becoming one of the new faces of their rebuild following a desperately disappointing campaign.