Manchester United are reportedly targeting Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney ahead of his contract deadline next year. The 23-year-old England U21 international, developed under former United coach Michael Carrick, has spent his entire career at Middlesbrough and is attracting interest as his deal nears expiration.
Hayden Hackney, the 23-year-old England U21 midfielder, is drawing significant attention as he enters the final year of his contract with Middlesbrough. Manchester United have emerged as the latest club interested in securing the player’s signature ahead of his contract deadline in 2027.
Hackney has spent his entire professional career at Middlesbrough, aside from a brief loan spell at Scunthorpe United during the 2021/22 season. Developed under former Manchester United coach Michael Carrick, who managed Middlesbrough at the Riverside Stadium, the midfielder is known for his vision and creativity on the pitch. Last season, Hackney led Middlesbrough with 128 take-ons in the Championship, successfully completing 57 of those attempts.
His ability to drive forward is highlighted by his 806 total carries, with 228 of these covering more than 10 yards progressively toward the opposition’s goal. Hackney created 17 chances following progressive carries and recorded 85 chances created overall—the highest at Middlesbrough during the 2025/26 campaign. His passing also stood out, with 875 passes reaching the final third and an overall pass accuracy of 86.37% for the season.
Defensively, Hackney made 408 one-on-one challenges and recovered the ball 215 times, showcasing a well-rounded game. He posted a tackle success rate of 66.67% and contributed seven assists, matching teammate Morgan Whittaker. Additionally, he completed 42 successful crosses, ranking just behind Callum Brittain and Matt Targett in the squad.
Middlesbrough chairman Steve Gibson is expected to resist losing key players but may consider selling Hackney if the midfielder seeks a move elsewhere, as such a transfer could provide funds to strengthen the squad. United’s interest is timely, given Hackney’s contract situation, but any deal will likely require swift negotiation amid competition from other interested clubs.
For Manchester United and Michael Carrick, who now works with the club, signing Hackney represents an opportunity to add a promising English talent known for technical skill and creativity. The player would also provide increased rotation options for United, especially with their participation in next season’s Champions League.
За матеріалами: What Middlesbrough’s Hayden Hackney would bring to Man Utd
