I don’t think Hackney is anywhere near as good as Wharton. I don’t see him becoming a top level player, perhaps a mid table PL player or rotation option for a 6th to 8th type team. Gray has a much higher ceiling.
I do think a proper DM for now could be transformational for us. If, for example, we threw £350k a week at Kimmmich on a 4 year deal that could be the best £70m we ever spent. Of course I doubt he would consider joining us but I’d be giving it a try.
Samuele Ricci is probably the best not too expensive, youngish but ready now player we could attract.
I thought Gray is meant to be our big DM signing, deserves some games in midfield to show what he can do but I don't think we need another hot prospect there when we already have Gray. Someone young like Wharton who is a little more proven with scope to still develop would be ideal.