Boro boss Michael Carrick is a Manchester United legend and this is a connection that we can use to sign some players on loan.
Middlesbrough have signed six players already, with many being relatively unproven. Therefore, it is likely that additional reinforcements are on the way.
It is a fact that loaning young players from the Premier League’s elite can instantly propel a side into the playoff conversation. This is a route Boro should consider going down in order to give Carrick the best chance possible.
It is also a route Carrick should be pushing for, given the likelihood he would be able to draw multiple young talents from Old Trafford. But who are the few that should be considered as realistic acquisitions?
Here are three midfielders that Carrick could bring to Boro on loan, that could have an immediate impact.
Three midfielders Carrick should get on-loan from United
United have an incredibly talented Premier League 2 side, along with multiple prospects who will be looking for more playing time this season.
Hannibal Mejbri
Hannibal Mejbri is a player who can play in midfield and across the front line, with his best position likely being as a number eight. He is tailor-made to play in the Championship due to his dogged attitude, which sees him consistently on the front line in battles.
This makes him perfect for a system which places an emphasis on pressing and possession, as Carrick does. Hannibal is also adept on the ball, with sublime technical ability, as he demonstrated throughout his season on loan at Birmingham City.
Passing, dribbling, physically dominant, with a high work-rate; what more could you can from an attack number eight.
Kobbie Mainoo
This one could be slightly less possible than the previously mentioned Hannibal, due to Kobbie Mainoo probably being ready to be a part of Erik ten Hag’s immediate plans based on his outstanding display against Leeds on Wednesday.
The 18-year-old looked composed and comfortable at senior level, and would bring instant technical quality into the Boro midfield. He is probably a player Carrick sees echoes of himself in, given the two share a similar style of play in the way they are both so composed on the ball.
Isak Hansen-Aarøen
United’s young Norwegian might not have made a whole lot of senior appearances just yet, but he has demonstrated his quality at various the youth levels. Isak Hansen-Aarøen made his senior football debut for Tromsø at the age of 15.
He was one of the youngsters who was hugely impressive as United opened their pre-season program with a win. He played a delightful pass through to winger Noam Emeran, who then slotted home for Hansen-Aarøen’s inaugural assist.
He would represent a risk but should adapt quickly and thrive under the Middlesbrough boss. He certainly has the skills to be a catalyst for huge success at the Riverside.