Manchester United have stepped up their interest in Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney ahead of the summer transfer window, according to reports.
The Old Trafford side are claimed to be leading the race to sign the 23-year-old after the season, ahead of Premier League clubs Everton, West Ham and Crystal Palace.
Hackney’s performances in the Championship have impressed United scouts this season, including interim head coach Michael Carrick, who has already spoken to the recruitment team about his former player.
The midfielder, whose qualities have been described as 'on another planet', played under Carrick during his reign at the Riverside Stadium and was an important part of the squad that finished fourth in the Championship in 2022/23.
Man Utd Interested in Hayden Hackney
Hayden Hackney applauding the Middlesbrough supporters
According to Football Insider, should Carrick remain in charge of United beyond the end of the season, he is likely to push the club to sign Hackney.
The pair share a strong relationship from their time at Middlesbrough and Hackney is now believed to have emerged as a major contender to join United if Carrick stays.
The Old Trafford side appointed Carrick on a short-term deal until the end of the season in January, with the 44-year-old succeeding former manager Ruben Amorim in charge.
United are unbeaten in their first six Premier League games under Carrick, winning five, and next host Crystal Palace on Sunday.
Red Devils Eyeing Midfield Overhaul
Manchester United's Casemiro in action against Everton.
Manchester United are eyeing a midfield overhaul after the season, with the Red Devils potentially welcoming multiple new names in the middle of the park this summer.
United are expected to look for a replacement for Casemiro, who has announced he will be leaving the club at the end of his contract in June.
Manuel Ugarte’s future has also been a talking point in recent weeks, with the Uruguayan struggling for regular minutes under both Amorim and Carrick this season.
Even if the Uruguayan stays, United’s move to a new 4-2-3-1 tactical set-up under Carrick has left them with just three options in holding midfield, including Kobbie Mainoo, which makes multiple arrivals likely this summer.
What Could Hackney Bring to United?
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick celebrates after the match
Amid United’s reported interest in Hackney, we asked ChatGPT how the 'outstanding' midfielder could slot into the Red Devils’ midfield next season:
Midfield control and progression – Hayden Hackney brings composure on the ball, helping Manchester United retain possession and move play through midfield more smoothly.
Press resistance – Comfortable receiving under pressure, he can turn away from markers and keep attacks flowing in tight areas.
Development profile – Still young, Hackney fits a long-term rebuild while offering energy and intelligence in central midfield.
sir jim ratcliffe Related
Man Utd Hold Talks to Appoint Manager Cristiano Ronaldo Loves
He could be on the move in the summer.