Brian Brobbey could grab his dream shirt number if Manchester United win the race to sign him this summer.
Having progressed through the Ajax academy and being welcomed into the senior team there under Erik ten Hag, the now-RB Leipzig striker has emerged as a target for United this summer transfer window amid uncertainty over Cristiano Ronaldo and his Old Trafford future.
Ronaldo wants to leave United only 12 months after completing a sensational return move to the club. The public stance from United is that Portugal captain Ronaldo, 37, is not for sale with Chelsea reported to be lurking after his signature, and is absence from the pre-season tour squad is put down to a family issue.
READ MORE: United could try to hijack Brobbey move
Due to that developing situation, however, United have adjusted their transfer plans this summer. As a result, while further defensive recruits are on the radar, the priority once prospective swoops for Frenkie de Jong and Christian Eriksen are finalised will be in attacking quarters.
Manchester Evening News understands United have made contact with Brobbey and Ten Hag remains keen for a reunion with the former Ajax frontman. Brobbey signed for RB Leipzig last summer, but is available for transfer yet again after being unable to settle in the Bundesliga.
After 13 goalless outings for the German side, Brobbey headed back to Amsterdam on loan last season and helped the club win a third Eredivisie title in four seasons under the newly-appointed United manager.
During that return spell, Brobbey was assigned the No.18 shirt at Ajax and, should he move on to United, that jersey has been freed up in time for next season. Of course, that is owing to Bruno Fernandes opting to vacate the number 18 to take up the No.8 previously held by Juan Mata.
As things stand, other options available to Brobbey and further recruits are 6, 13, 14, 21, 24 and 30. The 20-year-old has also worn 21 and 30 over the course of his young career.
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