Everton have completed the signing of Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough in a deal that could rise to £25m, while Tottenham have confirmed the signing of Mateus Fernandes from West Ham for £85m. These high-profile moves are set to reshape the midfield dynamics of both Premier League clubs ahead of the new season.
Everton Secure Hayden Hackney in £25m Deal
The midfielder Hayden Hackney, named Player of the Year in the Championship last season, has signed a five-year contract with the Merseyside club following weeks of negotiations. Middlesbrough rejected several bids from Everton for the 24-year-old as they held out for their £25m valuation on a player who had only 12 months left on his contract.
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Interest from Crystal Palace strengthened Middlesbrough’s position, but Hackney was intent on joining Everton. The former Middlesbrough captain said: “As soon as I spoke to the manager, as soon as I knew Everton were interested, it was always going to be Everton. It’s such a big club, with the new stadium and the direction it’s going in.”
What Hackney Brings to Everton
Hackney is a dynamic box-to-box midfielder known for his ball carrying ability and late runs into the penalty area. He stated: “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.”
Everton manager David Moyes added: “Hayden is a promising young player who we’ve been tracking for some time. 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.” Hackney was also part of the England team that won the European Under-21 Championship in 2025.
Transfer Fee Breakdown
| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Fee | £16.5 million |
| Potential Add-ons | £8.5 million |
| Total Potential Value | £25 million |
The add-ons are tied to performance milestones, including Hackney earning a senior England cap. Everton are also close to signing winger Tyrique George from Chelsea, signaling an aggressive summer rebuild.
Tottenham Break Club Record for Mateus Fernandes
In a separate blockbuster move, Tottenham have completed the signing of midfielder Mateus Fernandes from West Ham for £85 million, a club record fee. The 21-year-old Portugal international began his career at Sporting and spent a season at Southampton in 2024-25 before signing for the Hammers in August last year.
De Zerbi’s Vision for Fernandes
Spurs head coach Roberto De Zerbi praised the young star: “I’ve admired Mateus for a long time because he combines quality on the ball with the intensity and intelligence that are so important in the way we want to play. Despite his age, he already has good experience in the Premier League.”
Fernandes is expected to slot into Tottenham’s midfield as a creative playmaker, offering both defensive work rate and attacking flair. His arrival marks a significant statement of intent from the North London club as they aim to challenge for top honours.
Impact on the Premier League Landscape
Both transfers underline the growing financial power of Premier League clubs. Everton’s investment in Hackney reflects a strategy of buying young, high-potential talent from the Championship, while Tottenham’s record-breaking deal for Fernandes shows their willingness to spend big on proven quality.
- Everton: Strengthening midfield depth with Hackney and targeting George.
- Tottenham: Adding a creative engine in Fernandes to complement existing stars.
With the new season approaching, these deals could significantly alter the competitive balance in the Premier League. Fans will be watching closely to see how both players adapt to their new surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did Everton pay for Hayden Hackney?
Everton paid an initial £16.5 million for Hackney, with the deal potentially rising to £25 million through add-ons related to his performance and England caps.
Why did Tottenham pay £85 million for Mateus Fernandes?
Tottenham see Fernandes as a long-term investment in midfield creativity and intensity. His Premier League experience and international pedigree at just 21 years old justify the club-record fee, according to manager Roberto De Zerbi.
What positions do Hackney and Fernandes play?
Hackney is a box-to-box midfielder who excels at carrying the ball and arriving late in the box. Fernandes is a creative playmaker known for his passing, dribbling, and defensive work rate in central midfield.
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