- Michael Carrick ‘pushing’ for Man Utd signing
- Red Devils boss previously managed Middlesbrough
- Three midfielders expected to arrive this summer
Michael Carrick is leading Manchester United’s major midfield rebuild this summer, and one deal is already on the brink of being wrapped up. United are set to sign Atalanta’s Ederson for an initial £35million plus £3m in potential bonuses, but two more arrivals in the engine room are likely.
And, naturally, Carrick could be looking to recruit players whom he believes in and knows he can trust ahead of a crucial first full season in the hot seat. One of those names just so happens to be the star man at the only other club that the United legend has coached in his young managerial career.
Hayden Hackney is certain to leave Middlesbrough this summer after the club’s failure to return to the Premier League via the Championship Play-Offs. United, while unlikely to pursue him, are reportedly in the frame, with Carrick the driving force behind their interest.
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Michael Carrick hailed Hayden Hackney
According to The Northern Echo, Carrick has been pushing Hackney’s name in recruitment meetings. He worked with the 23-year-old at Middlesbrough from 2022 to 2025 and appears to want a reunion at Old Trafford.
David Ornstein reports that United are among Hackney’s suitors but do not plan to make a play for his signature. Everton are the current frontrunners, with Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace also in the frame.
Carrick’s desire to work with Hackney again should come as no surprise. He previously spoke glowingly while Middlesbrough boss back in 2024:
“You couldn’t ask for much more from Hayden. He’s grounded, he’s humble, he’s down to earth and loves to learn. He loves the place, and he loves the club as well. To have that, added with the talent he has got, it’s the perfect scenario.”
Man Utd’s midfield rebuild begins
United’s decision-makers may believe that it would be too big a step for Hackney in such an important summer of business. After wrapping up the Ederson deal, the Red Devils are expected to turn their attention towards a Premier League-proven man.
That is Mateus Fernandes, who is very likely to stay in the top flight after West Ham United’s relegation. The former Southampton midfielder has just suffered the drop for a second consecutive season but has established himself as one of the league’s most exciting young talents.
Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain join United in the running for the 21-year-old, but there is confidence that he will end up at Old Trafford with his idol, Bruno Fernandes.
