Hayden Hackney preferred club revealed amid Manchester United interest

Manchester United’s midfield rebuild is expected to continue throughout the summer, but one player previously linked with a move to Old Trafford appears to have set his sights elsewhere.

The Red Devils are exploring a number of options following Casemiro’s departure, with Michael Carrick keen to add depth to the centre of the park ahead of the club’s return to Champions League football.

Among the names admired internally is Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, a player Carrick knows better than most after overseeing his development during his time on Teesside.

However, Manchester United may now face disappointment in their pursuit.

Hayden Hackney chooses preferred destination

According to The Athletic, despite attracting interest from several Premier League clubs, Hayden Hackney is favouring a move to Everton, placing the Merseyside club at the front of the queue for his signature as things stand.

The 23-year-old is expected to leave Middlesbrough this summer after the club’s failure to secure promotion, while the midfielder is also entering the final 12 months of his current contract.

Negotiations between Everton and Middlesbrough have not yet begun, but the player’s preference is understood to be a major factor in shaping the next stage of discussions.

A key attraction appears to be the prospect of regular first-team football.

While a club like Manchester United can offer bigger stages, Hackney is believed to view Everton as a clearer pathway to consistent Premier League minutes during a crucial stage of his career.

That reality could ultimately prove decisive.

United’s interest remains genuine, with Carrick having championed the midfielder during recruitment meetings after working closely with him at Middlesbrough.

The United head coach handed Hackney a regular role in the first team and was instrumental in helping him establish himself as one of the Championship’s standout performers.

Hackney’s performances this season only strengthened his reputation, with the midfielder widely regarded as one of the division’s most complete players.

Capable of operating deeper in midfield or further forward, he combines intelligent passing with excellent ball-carrying ability and has regularly been the player driving Middlesbrough through the lines.

His quality has not gone unnoticed across England, particularly after being named Championship Player of the Season.

With Middlesbrough expected to demand at least £20 million, the midfielder is viewed by many clubs as a relatively affordable opportunity in a market where transfer fees continue to rise.

For now, though, Everton appear to hold the advantage, leaving Manchester United facing an uphill battle if they decide to accelerate their interest in the coming weeks.