Manchester United have drawn up an extensive transfer shortlist as INEOS prepare for a major midfield overhaul this summer.
Casemiro will officially leave the club after his contract expires at the end of this month.
United are also expected to part ways with Manuel Ugarte following a disappointing spell at the club.
The Red Devils urgently need an elite midfielder capable of transforming the starting XI, but they also require at least two more additions to strengthen squad depth.
Hayden Hackney is one of the names who has been linked with United.
According to The Athletic, United “like” Hackney but he is lower on their list of targets and a move to Old Trafford is not anticipated at present.
It should also be noted that his preference is to join Everton this summer.
INEOS likely to prioritise Ederson over Hackney
United are currently locked in advanced negotiations with Atalanta over a move for Ederson worth less than £38 million.
It is widely believed that the Brazilian midfielder could become the first signing of the Michael Carrick era at Old Trafford.
The 26-year-old should be viewed internally as either the second or third midfield addition United plan to make this summer.
The club must aggressively pursue a genuine superstar midfielder before the transfer window closes.
Hackney enjoyed a superb 2025/26 campaign, bagging five goals and seven assists in 38 league appearances.
The 23-year-old impressed with his ability to create chances from deep midfield areas and deservedly won the Championship Player of the Season award.
Realistically, it makes very little sense for United to sign both Hackney and Ederson in the same transfer window.
INEOS admire Ederson and also believe his experience at the highest level would immediately elevate the overall quality of the squad.
For Hackney, a switch to Everton could provide the ideal platform to take the next major step in his career.
Stats from Fotmob.com