Insider Verdict: Man United could miss out on signing Middlesbrough star after new twist
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(Credit: Imago) Man United face Hayden Hackney blow as new Middlesbrough transfer plan revealed – expert Tue 10 March 2026 17:00, UK Middlesbrough are growing more confident in their desire to keep Hayden Hackney at the club in what could be a new blow to Manchester United.The 23-year-old has emerged as key target for the Red Devils, who have been long-term admirers, thanks to his relationship with interim manager Michael Carrick.However, after he turned down a move to Ipswich in favour of staying with his boyhood club last summer, he could be set to remain at the Riverside Stadium again.Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that promotion to the Premier League would likely allow Middlesbrough to retain their star man.While there is not expected to be any decrease in interest surrounding the midfielder, he may choose to stay at Middlesbrough and derail Man United’s transfer plans.Credit: Imago 🔄 Man United Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on deals in progress, signing scoops, departures, and contract news from the United boardroom. VISIT THE TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Man United dealt blow in race for Hayden HackneyBrown told Football Insider last month that Man United are leading contenders for Hackney thanks to his strong relationship with Carrick from his time at Boro.However, with the Championship club currently sitting second in the league table, securing automatic promotion will be a huge boost their plans.“If Boro get promoted, Hackney has a decision to make,” Brown told Football Insider.“He’s still under contract there and they’re going to want to build around him if they get into the Premier League to give themselves the best chance of staying there.“He will assess the situation because ultimately he will be playing Premier League football.“There would be no real move for him to go elsewhere, when he’s not going to be guaranteed minutes like he will be if he stays at Middlesbrough.“Hackney has turned down chances to leave before, so it would take a good offer to get him away, especially if they’re in the Premier League.“So I think Man United and the other teams looking at him could miss out, Boro would certainly be in a strong position to keep him.Credit: Imago“He’s a top talent in the Championship, if he then comes up to the Premier League and performs with Boro, that interest isn’t going to go anywhere.“So he could stay for the season at least before making a move if they go down or whatever happens, but a lot will depend on whether they get promoted.”Which other clubs are in the race to sign Hackney?Man United are not the only club keeping tabs on Hackney and will face stiff competition if they want to lure him away from Middlesbrough.The 23-year-old’s performances in the Championship have impressed watching scouts from a number of Premier League clubs ahead of the summer window.Football Insider revealed on 20 February that Fulham and Leeds both want Hackney and are the latest clubs to join the ever-growing race for his signature.Credit: ImagoEverton, West Ham and Crystal Palace are among the other clubs linked with a move for the midfielder who has emerged as one of the best players in the Championship.However, all of the interested clubs could be set to miss out on the midfielder if Middlesbrough gain promotion to the Premier League come the end of the season.
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