Manchester United’s summer recruitment plans are already taking shape, with Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney emerging as a player to keep an eye on.
According to TEAMtalk, United will continue to monitor the 23-year-old as they consider options to refresh their midfield ahead of the new season.
Hackney has been one of the Championship’s best performers and there is growing belief in English football that he will be playing in the Premier League next year following his promotion to Middlesbrough and a high-profile move.
Manchester United prioritize strengthening midfield
Man United are expected to make major changes to their midfield this summer.
With the expected departure of senior players and a desire to inject energy and tactical flexibility into the squad, recruitment teams are evaluating both established names and up-and-coming domestic talent.
Hackney fits into the latter category. A technically adept central midfielder, he is comfortable dictating the tempo from a deep position while carrying the ball forward with confidence.
His ability to play as a progressive number eight or in a deeper playmaking role has been compared to modern Premier League midfielders who blend work rate and composure.
One factor that could potentially work in United’s favor is Hackney’s relationship with Michael Carrick.
The current United manager previously coached Hackney at Middlesbrough and played a pivotal role in his development.
Competition to sign Hayden Hackney intensifies
Middlesbrough firmly rejected approaches from Nottingham Forest and Tottenham in January.
The club saw Hackney as the center of their ambitions and were reluctant to allow a mid-season sale.
However, the landscape can change completely in the summer. If promotion proves difficult, economic realities and player ambitions could open the door to negotiations.
Everton are also monitoring developments and are thought to be adding a new layer of competition to the race.
Manchester United players feel it would be ‘insane’ to let first-team players leave in the summer
