Bruno Fernandes has admitted he wants the number eight shirt at Manchester United - but is not willing to take it from teammate Juan Mata.
The Spaniard is the current holder of the eight shirt, while Fernandes has been forced to don the number 18 jersey for the entirety of his two-year United career. At his previous club Sporting CP, Fernandes proudly adorned the number 8 shirt for the majority of his time at the club.
The 27-year-old was asked by a fan on Twitter during a question and answer session as to whether he would change his squad number to eight next term. Fernandes replied: "I hope to get it one day...but for now I hope to have my brother @juanmata8 close to me."
There is every chance Fernandes does get the number eight shirt as early as next season given Mata's United career is undeniably nearing its end. The former Chelsea's man current United contract expires at the end of the campaign and there has been very little talk of a renewal.
In stark contrast, Fernandes has just penned an extension that will see him tied to Old Trafford for at least the next four years. Following confirmation of the deal, the midfielder reflected on his time at the club so far as well as issuing a positive outlook on the future.
"From the moment that I joined Manchester United I have had a special relationship with the Club and our amazing fans. I grew up watching this team, dreaming of getting the chance to play here one day. That dream is now a reality and an honour," he told the club's website.
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"Even after two years, it still feels amazing to step out at Old Trafford, to hear the fans sing my song and to score in front of the Stretford End. It is a true privilege to wear this shirt and to fight for our incredible Club.
"There is so much more that I want to achieve here, and I know that is the same for the rest of the squad and staff. More than anything, we want to give the fans the success that they deserve. We have shared some great moments over the last years, but the best is yet to come from myself and this team."
United currently sit sixth in the Premier League table, four points adrift of fourth-placed Arsenal as the Red Devils desperately look to ensure Champions League qualification with next season in mind.
