Man Utd 'target shock Hayden Hackey deal' with Michael Carrick pushing for Middlesbrough star

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Manchester United have joined the queue of clubs pursuing Hayden Hackney this summer with Michael Carrick said to be driving a move for the sought-after Middlesbrough midfielder.

Hackney is widely regarded as one of the best players outside the Premier League and was influential in driving Boro to the Championship play-offs, where they were eventually bested by Hull City in last month's final . In the wake of Middlesbrough failing to win promotion to the top-flight, Hackney is now expected to move on in the upcoming transfer window.

The 23-year-old has just entered the final year of his contract and Middlesbrough are ready to cash in with Premier League suitors circling .

But Manchester United would be confident of beating any rivals to Hackney's signature if they do go on to bid for a player who excelled under Carrick during his time at Boro, The Northern Echo report.

They also claim that it is looking 'increasingly likely' that United will launch a move for the playmaker with Carrick said to be 'championing' the pursuit of Hackney after recently being installed as the Red Devils' permanent head coach.

Crystal Palace , Everton and Tottenham are three of the other clubs who are keen on landing Hackney ahead of the 2026-27 campaign, though none would be able to offer Champions League football like Manchester United.

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Carrick, who impressed Old Trafford chiefs after winning 11 of the 16 games he oversaw during his interim reign, managed Middlesbrough between October 2022 and June 2025. Hackney became a regular starter during Carrick's premiership and has grown into an influential figure.

Manchester United's desire to overhaul their engine room this summer has been well documented following the departure of Casemiro .

Talks over a deal for the Atalanta midfielder, Ederson, have already taken place and are believed to be at an advanced stage. United could sign as many as three midfielders this summer and will have greater financial flexibility after qualifying for the Champions League.

Elliot Anderson is another player who has been heavily linked with Manchester United following an outstanding season for Nottingham Forest , with the 24-year-old now poised to play a key role for England at the World Cup after forcing his way into Thomas Tuchel's plans.

However, Manchester City are confident that they will be the ones to land Anderson in a blockbuster big-money deal despite the recent departure of Pep Guardiola .

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