Hayden Hackney, the much-praised Middlesbrough midfielder, has turned down a £20 million deal to join Ipswich Town, despite the two clubs having a verbal agreement and Hackney having traveled to Suffolk for talks and even a potential medical.
According to transfer reports, Hackney opted to stay at Middlesbrough, refusing the move and even declining increased wages to do so
That abrupt decision has reignited interest from Manchester United, who are exploring the possibility of hijacking the transfer. United see Hackney as a rising star and have held internal discussions about making a late-summer move to sign him instead
🧠 What This Means: Why United Might Slip Into the Picture
- Deal Status: With Middlesbrough remaining open to offers, Hackney’s decision stalls Ipswich’s move but doesn’t close the door entirely
- United’s Interest: United views Hackney as a bright, adaptable midfield prospect. Now that Ipswich is out, Old Trafford could step in with renewed intent 🚩
- Timing Is Key: With multiple clubs linked and the transfer window closing soon, United’s potential interest could derail other clubs’ plans.
⚽ Additional Hijack Rumors in United Camp
This is not the only case of Manchester United allegedly preparing transfer hijacks:
- Youssouf Fofana: United are reportedly looking to intercept AC Milan’s move for the Monaco midfielder, though Milan remains the frontrunner
- Benjamin Šeško: Despite an agreement with RB Leipzig, United may attempt a blockbuster late swoop for the Slovenian forward before Newcastle finalizes a deal
Takeaway
- One midfielder said no to £20M — and that rejection has triggered renewed interest from Manchester United.
- United’s reputational play: Their scouting and sleight-of-hand tactics suggest a strategic push to swoop in when rival deals falter.
- For Hackney, it might be an opportunity to choose his destination—if United can convince him and Middlesbrough remains open.
Would you like a profile of Hayden Hackney or insight into how often United hijack transfers successfully?