Manchester United Could Move In For This Championship Midfielder: Good Choice For Carrick? | OneFootball

In a recent segment on Youtube, talkSPORT’s Alex Crook stated that Manchester United could move in for Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney. Crook said,

“Couple of other names that have been mentioned to me in the last couple of days, Mateus Fernandes at West Ham, I think, is starting to play really well for them.

“A cheaper option potentially if you’re just looking for extra numbers in midfield. Hayden Hackney at Middlesbrough, obviously someone who played under Michael Carrick, someone who a lot of Premier League clubs have  looked at.

“So it wouldn’t surprise me if they sign one of those big guns that you’re talking about the likes of Wharton or Baleba or Anderson, maybe even Tonali and then bring in Hayden Hackney or Mateus Fernandes to supplement that.”

Hackney’s Impressive Form In The Premier League

Hackney is having an impressive campaign at the English club as he has produced a run of eye-catching displays for them at the centre of the park. The 23-year-old has registered six goals and earned seven assists in 38 matches for Middlesbrough this season across all competitions.

The English talent’s current contract at the Riverside Stadium will expire in the summer of 2027. Hence, Man United could potentially sign him on the cheap this summer.

MIDDLESBROUGH, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 21: Hayden Hackney of Middlesbrough runs to take a corner during the Sky Bet Championship match between Middlesbrough and Oxford United at Riverside Stadium on February 21, 2026 in Middlesbrough, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

Is Hackney A Good Choice For Manchester United?

Hackney is a good tackler of the ball and can sense the danger well to secure the ball back for his team inside his half. He usually puts his foot through the ball when needed and is an accurate passer of the ball as well.

The English talent can also chip in by scoring and creating a handful of important goals for his team from midfield. Hackney is primarily a defensive midfielder but can also serve as a box-to-box midfielder or play in the number ten position if told to do so. However, only time will tell whether he can make a smooth transition to life in the Premier League.

Hackney would enhance the quality of Man United head coach Michael Carrick’s midfield department. He is good enough to serve as an ideal successor to Casemiro at the Mancunian club.

At 23, Hackney has got his peak years ahead of him, which makes him a decent choice for the Red Devils to consider in this summer transfer window. He will also help Man United challenge across all fronts in the future.