Manchester United Are Facing Stiff Competition For This Championship Midfielder: Decent Fit For Amorim? | OneFootball

In a recent report, journalists Danny Rust and Dean Jones claimed that Manchester United are facing stiff competition for Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney this summer. It has been revealed that the Red Devils would have to rival West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur in the race to land the English talent in this transfer window.

Hackney’s Impressive Form In The EFL Championship

Hackney enjoyed an impressive campaign in the EFL Championship recently as he produced a handful of solid performances at the heart of Middlesbrough‘s midfield. The 23-year-old scored five times and earned three assists in 44 appearances for the English outfit last season across multiple competitions.

The English talent offered decent protection for his teammates at the back after he made 93 tackles, 61 blocks and 30 interceptions in the EFL Championship. He was even accurate with his ball distribution as he completed 83.7% of his attempted passes in the second tier of English football (stats via fbref.com).

His current contract at the English club will run out in the summer of 2027. Therefore, the Red Devils would have to make a convincing offer if they want to recruit Hackney in this transfer window.

BRADFORD, ENGLAND – JULY 23: Hayden Hackney of Middlesbrough looks on during the pre-season friendly match between Bradford City and Middlesbrough at University of Bradford Stadium on July 23, 2025 in Bradford, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

Will Hackney Be A Good Fit For Manchester United Boss Ruben Amorim?

Hackney is a tough-tackling midfielder who can time his challenges well to earn possession back for his team inside his half. He usually clears his lines when required and is an accurate passer of the ball as well.

The English sensation has also added some goals and assists to his game. However, only time will tell whether he can make a step up from the EFL Championship and maintain his good form in the Premier League if the Red Devils win the race for his services.

Hackney would undoubtedly improve the quality of Man United head coach Ruben Amorim’s midfield department. He has what it takes to compete for a regular first-team place at the Mancunian club in the coming seasons.

At 23, Hackney has his peak years ahead of him, which makes him a great fit for Man United’s needs in the long run. All in all, the Red Devils would be wise to get a deal done over the line for the English midfielder before the end of this transfer period.