Man United Face Shirt Number Dilemma Over Sandro Tonali and Ederson Transfers
- Manchester United are chasing Sandro Tonali and Ederson as Michael Carrick rebuilds his midfield
- Bruno Fernandes and Patrick Dorgu could block dream shirt numbers for the two potential signings
- United could still push ahead with the £129m double deal despite complications with shirt numbers
Manchester United could face an unusual problem if they complete summer moves for Sandro Tonali and Ederson, with both midfielders unable to inherit their preferred numbers at Old Trafford.
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New manager Michael Carrick is eager to strengthen his midfield options after Casemiro’s departure, and the respective Newcastle United and Atalanta stars have emerged as major transfer targets.
Manchester United target Tonali and Ederson
According to the Manchester Evening News, United have already reached a verbal agreement with Ederson on a five-year contract, while negotiations with Atalanta over a deal worth around £43 million are continuing.
Tonali has also been heavily linked with a move to Manchester after Newcastle United failed to secure European football next season.
The Magpies are reportedly demanding around £86 million for the Italian international, though United are said to be optimistic about completing a double signing.
Despite the excitement surrounding the potential arrivals, neither player may get their favoured shirt number if they head to the Theatre of Dreams.
Sandro Tonali has worn the No.8 shirt throughout much of his career, but that jersey currently belongs to club captain Bruno Fernandes, who remains central to Carrick’s plans.
Ederson, meanwhile, prefers No.13, but the number is already occupied by Patrick Dorgu.
Alternative vacant shirts, including No.12, 19, and 22, may instead become available if the Brazilian joins United this summer.
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Source: YEN.com.gh
