United set to firm up interest in exemplary promotion-chasing midfielder as rivals told deal is well out of their league – report

Revamping Manchester United’s midfield tops INEOS’ agenda for 2026.

Ideally, United should have strengthened their engine room last summer, but they did not. That decision has come back to haunt them.

The midfield has been routinely outplayed, failing to impose itself or influence games as it should.

Given the current state of United’s midfield, INEOS ought to be more than motivated to act decisively when the window reopens.

Identifying targets is not the issue; it is the willingness to spend that could prove decisive.

Several top midfielders continue to be linked with a move to Old Trafford. One of them is Middlesbrough’s Hayden Hackney.

Middlesbrough man

Hackney has long been on United’s radar. After a standout 2024–25 campaign, filled with eye-catching performances, many expected him to take the next step and sign for a top side.

United emerged as the ideal destination. Yet, despite the buzz, no move materialised. Hackney remained at the Riverside.

Unfazed by missing out on a big summer switch, one he had certainly earned, Hackney has kept his standards high. His performances continue to impress.

His brilliance has not gone unnoticed. Recent reports suggest Fulham have been positioning themselves to make a move.

And while that may have sparked concern among United fans, worried INEOS might let another top talent slip away, an intriguing update has surfaced.

Out of their league

On the Fulham links, Teamtalk report:

“Insiders suggest that their [Fulham’s] best chance of landing the midfielder may already have passed.”

They argue Fulham should have struck in the summer, stating:

“That period was probably the best window of opportunity for a mid-table Premier League side such as Fulham to strike a deal.”

United can act

With Hackney now considered out of Fulham’s reach, the UK outlet adds:

“Tottenham and Manchester United are among those who have kept a close eye on his progress and could be tempted to firm up their interest in 2026.”

For United fans, the hope is that INEOS’ urgency to rebuild the midfield sees them win this race.

Perfect signing

United are crying out for a complete overhaul of their midfield. Even if names like Elliot Anderson and Carlos Baleba are in the mix, there should still be room for a Hackney deal.

England U21s and Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney has made the most progressive passes in all domestic leagues this season. ☄️

(@Stathead) pic.twitter.com/zRbdwxm13D

— The England Pod (@England_Pod) April 6, 2025

For sure, Hackney’s ability to consistently progress the ball, whether by driving forward with purpose or picking incisive passes, could transform United’s midfield dynamic.

Featured image George Wood via Getty Images

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