Manchester United have received a major boost in their pursuit of one of their top targets, with the Reds looking to solve their midfield conundrum.
Since the beginning of the summer transfer window, many transfer outlets had speculated that Manchester United would bring in some reinforcements to strengthen their midfield.
Despite these rumours, Ruben Amorim’s side opted against any midfield additions and instead decided to sign three attackers, as well as a new goalkeeper.
Having spent over £200million on the likes of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Šeško, and Senne Lammens, the Reds were left with a slightly bare midfield.
Since the start of the new Premier League campaign, this area of the pitch has become increasingly concerning for United, as it has been exposed on numerous occasions.
United receive Hackney boost
With United desperately needing a new profile to better suit Amorim’s system, the Reds have been linked with Middlesbrough’s Hayden Hackney.
The young English midfielder has impressed in his time for Middlesbrough, and has had a fantastic start to the new season with one goal and two assists in eight games.
With his side now sitting comfortably at the top of the EFL Championship, Hackney’s excellence has started to attract attention, including from the likes of Manchester United.
Teamtalk have reported, via The People’s Person, that “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.”
Is a midfield rebuild urgent?
Clearly, in the case of United, a midfield rejuvenation is a necessity within the near future, however, will it be a waste during Amorim’s tenure?
The Portuguese tactician sets his side up in a 3-4-2-1 system, which leaves his midfield quite heavily exposed.
If Amorim is to depart, a less exposed system, such as a 4-2-3-1 or a 4-3-3, may eradicate their current midfield concerns without any additions being necessary.
Regardless of whether United’s current manager stays or goes, Hackney looks to be a very astute piece of business that wouldn’t prevent the Reds from acquiring any of their big-money targets.
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