Manchester United are interested in signing Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, who has previously worked under Michael Carrick, according to TEAMtalk.
Signing a midfielder could be one of United's priorities in the January transfer window, especially with a change of formation likely due to Carrick's arrival. The Red Devils are yet to make any new additions since the market opened earlier this month, but it wouldn't be a surprise to see them bring in some reinforcements after an inconsistent start to the season.
Although Carrick was only brought in on an interim basis, INEOS and the hierarchy will want to give him all the tools to be successful. If United get their act together, qualifying for the Champions League is still a real possibility, but they might need a couple of bodies through the door.
Man Utd Eyeing Michael Carrick Favourite
Hayden Hackney applauding the Middlesbrough supporters
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Manchester United are one of the clubs who are interested in signing Hackney. New interim manager Carrick is believed to be a 'huge admirer' of the midfielder after working closely with him, while the Manchester club are hoping to bring in another body in the middle of the park.
Hackney, compared to Bruno Fernandes by Football Economist, is believed to have a £30m price tag on his head, with Middlesbrough feeling as though a January exit is unlikely, with clubs unwilling to match their valuation.
United shouldn't be looking to bring in new additions based solely off the recommendation of an interim manager, but Hackney is likely someone the club are well aware of. The English midfielder, labelled as 'outstanding', has been a consistently high-level performer in the Championship, and he feels destined for a move to the Premier League.
Carrick Likely to Bring His Own Style to Man Utd
Manchester United assistant coach Michael Carrick before facing Southampton.
During his time at Middlesbrough, Carrick predominantly played a 4-2-3-1 system, which relies heavily on his midfield pairing to progress the ball from deep. Under Ruben Amorim, United had two midfielders, but two number 10's ahead of them, with the attacking midfielders more classed as forwards than midfielders.
Carrick's number 10 will likely be someone capable of dropping deeper and being creative, such as Bruno Fernandes, meaning United might want a little more on-the-ball quality in the middle of the park. Kobbie Mainoo could be that internal solution, but his future is up in the air after a difficult season.