Manchester United continue assessing midfield options ahead of the summer transfer window as the club prepare for a return to the Champions League.
Several midfielders have appeared on the club’s radar in recent months, especially after United identified the position as an area needing further depth and quality.
With Casemiro leaving the club and questions over Manuel Ugarte’s long-term future at the club, United will need to sign multiple midfielders this summer.
They have already progressed in securing Ederson from Atalanta. However, there are many other midfielders on their list of targets.
It seems Elliot Anderson wants to join Manchester City despite United’s admiration. For Adam Wharton, Crystal Palace are likely to offer him a new deal.
As for Carlos Baleba, he failed to impress last season. However, there is one midfielder who impressed last season. But Manchester United are unlikely to pursue him.
According to The Athletic, Manchester United have shown interest in Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, but they are not looking to pursue a deal for him.
He impressed heavily in the Championship last season and also attracted attention from Old Trafford following strong performances.
The 23-year-old registered five goals and eight assists in 38 appearances and eventually won the Championship Player of the Season award.
However, Middlesbrough’s failure to secure promotion has now increased the chances of the midfielder leaving the club this summer.
Hackney has entered the final year of his contract at Middlesbrough. So, it will naturally generate interest from several Premier League clubs ahead of the transfer window.
The report also states that Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace are monitoring the situation closely. Despite that interest, Hackney reportedly prefers a move to Everton.
However, Everton have not yet opened official negotiations with Middlesbrough regarding a possible deal.
For now, though, Manchester United reportedly do not plan to intensify their interest despite monitoring the player’s situation.
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