Manchester United have joined the race to sign Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, with newly appointed permanent head coach Michael Carrick reportedly championing the move. Hackney, 23, is widely regarded as one of the best players outside the Premier League and was instrumental in Boro's run to the Championship play-off final, where they lost to Hull City.
Hackney has entered the final year of his contract at the Riverside Stadium, and Middlesbrough are prepared to cash in as Premier League clubs circle. Carrick, who managed Middlesbrough from October 2022 to June 2025, knows Hackney well from his time there and is said to be driving United's interest.
Manchester United are expected to overhaul their midfield this summer following Casemiro's departure. The club have already held advanced talks for Atalanta's Ederson and could sign up to three midfielders, with Champions League qualification providing greater financial flexibility.
Crystal Palace, Everton and Tottenham are also keen on Hackney, but none can offer Champions League football. Meanwhile, Manchester United are also linked with Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, though Manchester City are confident of landing the 24-year-old despite Pep Guardiola's departure.
