In a recent interview, former scout Mick Brown revealed that Manchester United are eyeing a move for Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney. Brown said,
“Hayden Hackney is somebody Man United have discussed.
“Michael Carrick knows him well, and he knows Michael Carrick, so I have no doubt the question will have been asked by the recruitment team at some stage.
“I’m told he is somebody the manager likes and would like to work with again if the opportunity came up, in a position where United want to strengthen.
“I think they’re going to bring in a midfielder and probably more than one because Casemiro is leaving and he might not be the only one.
“So Hackney would fit that bill. He’s a talented young player who has impressed in the Championship and a lot of clubs are having a look at him.
“But if United make a move and Carrick is still the manager next season, it gives them a real advantage because of the relationship that is already there.”
Hackney’s Impressive Form In The EFL Championship
The 23-year-old is having a decent campaign at the English club as he has put in a string of impressive displays for them at the centre of the park. Hackney has registered five goals and grabbed six assists in 36 matches for Middlesbrough this season across various competitions.
The talented playmaker is currently among the best young midfielders in English football. Thus, it makes sense for Man United to move in for him next summer.
Will Hackney Be A Good Choice For Manchester United Boss Michael Carrick?
Hackney is a solid tackler of the ball and can sense the danger well to secure the ball back for his team inside his half. He doesn’t mind putting his foot through the ball when needed and is a tidy passer of the ball as well.
The English sensation can even 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 operate as a box-to-box midfielder or play in the number ten position if required. However, only time will tell whether he can make a smooth transition to life in the Premier League.
We can expect Hackney to add more quality and depth to Man United head coach Michael Carrick’s midfield department. He is good enough to challenge for regular first-team football at Old Trafford.
At 23, Hackney has his peak years ahead of him, which makes him a decent choice for the Red Devils to pursue at the end of this campaign.
