Manchester United's summer transfer plans could take a significant turn on Saturday, as the Championship play-off final between Hull City and Middlesbrough may determine the future of midfielder Toby Collyer. The 22-year-old prospect, who spent the second half of the season on loan at Hull, is awaiting the outcome of the Wembley showdown to see if he will remain with the Tigers or return to Old Trafford.
Play-off final implications for Collyer
The Championship play-off final has already been shrouded in controversy after Southampton were removed from the match due to the Spygate scandal, with Middlesbrough taking their place on Tuesday. Hull, who overcame Millwall in the semi-finals, now face Boro for a chance to return to the Premier League for the first time since 2017. Should Hull secure promotion, they are likely to seek an extension of Collyer's stay, either through a permanent transfer or a second loan spell.
Collyer's season and ambitions
Collyer's campaign has been hampered by injuries, including a recall from an earlier loan at West Bromwich Albion in January due to fitness issues. He has since made five appearances for Hull but has been sidelined since April after sustaining another injury in training. Despite these setbacks, Collyer remains determined to play at the highest level. "Everyone wants to play for Man United. That's my main goal," he told The Athletic. "But if not, just be playing in the Premier League as an established player."
Hull manager Sergej Jakirovic has praised Collyer's potential, stating after his performance against Coventry City: "He showed that he's a Man United player. This is his first start in many months. It was a great moment to put him in, and he can now show he is a player with great potential and talent."
Manchester United's summer plans
United have already confirmed two departures ahead of the transfer window, with Casemiro set to leave at the end of his contract and Rasmus Hojlund's loan at Napoli converted into a permanent deal after the Italian club secured Champions League qualification. Manager Michael Carrick is preparing for a busy summer, and Collyer's situation adds another layer of complexity to the club's midfield planning.
Collyer's contract with United runs until 2027, and he left the club in search of consistent playing time. A play-off final victory for Hull would bring him closer to his Premier League dream, whether at Old Trafford or with the Tigers. The Championship outfit demonstrated their appreciation for the academy product by moving quickly to secure his loan after his recall from West Brom. "It was a no-brainer," Collyer said of joining Hull. "Hull showed interest in the summer and I had to make a tough decision to say no. I felt they really wanted me by coming back."
Should Hull prevail at Wembley, they will need to strengthen their squad for the top flight, and Collyer could prove his worth on an even bigger stage. For now, all eyes are on Saturday's final, which will shape the next chapter of the young midfielder's career.
