Exclusive: Michael Carrick Lining Up Middlesbrough Star Hayden Hackney for Man Utd Move

Michael Carrick will try to sign Middlesbrough’s Hayden Hackney if he is handed the Manchester United job on a permanent basis, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal. 

After winning his first two games in charge, Carrick has put himself in a strong position to continue in the role long-term. 

And if he does convince Old Trafford chiefs to let him continue beyond the end of the present campaign, the former England international is determined to persuade them to raid his old club for Hackney.

Aged 23, the midfielder is one of the most sought-after talents in the Championship and is attracting attention from a host of Premier League clubs after emerging as a driving force behind Boro’s push for promotion.

Although they plan to retain his services if top-flight status is achieved, Carrick believes his relationship with Hackney and the opportunity to represent one of the biggest names in world football would prove impossible for both the youngster and his representatives to resist.

Carrick is scheduled to leave United this summer, after agreeing to temporarily replace Ruben Amorim following the Portuguese’s departure earlier this month. Although part owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and major shareholders The Glazer family are minded to land a big name, with Roberto de Zerbi, Oliver Glasner and even Sir Gareth Southgate all among those linked, they will find it difficult to ignore Carrick’s claims if results continue in the same vain. 

Former Middlesbrough boss Rob Edwards, now at Wolverhampton Wanderers, has also been linked with a move for Hackney, but the West Midlands club were left cold after being told only bids in excess of £35million would be considered.

Carrick Making His Mark

After leaving the Riverside over the summer, following nearly three years in charge, he is known to be keen on remaining in post beyond the end of the temporary agreement he struck with Ratcliffe. 

If Carrick gets his wish, then he will look to convince United’s director of football Jason Wilcox that Hackney has the capabilities required to rejuvenate the club’s engine room as the Red Devils look towards the future.

Carrick, who made 464 appearances for United as a player, worked closely with Hackney during their time together on Teesside and is credited with turning the under-21 international into one of the country’s hottest prospects.

Hackney made his debut for Middlesbrough in 2021, having been spotted by academy scouts whilst with Redcar Town.