Manchester United is reportedly interested in Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, along with two other standout players from the Championship, as part of their strategy to assemble a formidable squad for the future.
The club is gearing up for a significant summer transfer window, with head coach Ruben Amorim expressing the need to enhance several positions within the team. Potential acquisitions may include a new striker, a central midfielder, a right wing-back, and a centre-back, while there are also indications that a new goalkeeper may be sought to replace the struggling Andre Onana.
To facilitate these transactions, Manchester United will need to part ways with several players who are no longer deemed essential. Among those likely to depart are Christian Eriksen, Victor Lindelof, Casemiro, Harry Maguire, and Jonny Evans.
As reported by the Daily Mail, the club is focusing on acquiring some of the most promising young talents in the Championship, believing they are prepared to transition to the Premier League.
Hackney, at just 22 years of age, has already accumulated over 100 appearances for Middlesbrough and is a regular member of the England U21 squad, establishing himself as one of the country’s most promising young players.
United previously missed the opportunity to sign Jude Bellingham, one of the Championship’s finest talents, when he moved from Birmingham City to Borussia Dortmund in July 2020. INEOS is determined to avoid a similar disappointment and is monitoring two additional Championship prospects alongside Hackney.
Hackney, Rigg and Bellingham all on Man Utd shortlist
The report indicates that Manchester United holds a keen interest in the promising Sunderland duo, Chris Rigg and Jobe Bellingham.
At ages 17 and 19, respectively, both players have been instrumental in Sunderland’s campaign for promotion.
If earlier reports are accurate, Rigg appears to be the most probable candidate to transfer to Old Trafford this summer.
United’s interest in the creative midfielder was first noted in November.
By February, it was revealed that Rigg had been categorized as a ‘must-have’ acquisition by the club.
Sunderland has tentatively placed a valuation of £25 million on the England youth international, although this figure may vary depending on whether the team competes in the Championship or Premier League next season.
Given that Rigg, Hackney, and Bellingham all play in midfield, it is anticipated that only one or two of them will join United, should Vivell intensify the club’s pursuit.
Man Utd transfers: Mainoo exit; Adeyemi claim
United supporters have been cautioned about the potential departure of Kobbie Mainoo this summer.
According to a report by The Guardian, Mainoo is likely to decline United’s most recent contract proposal, as he contemplates a transfer overseas.
Regarding new signings at United, Karim Adeyemi has been identified as a prospective addition to Amorim’s initiative.
United is reportedly leading the race to acquire the Borussia Dortmund winger, surpassing interest from clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea.