Bruno Fernandes has finally managed to get his hands on his beloved number eight shirt at Manchester United.
The Portugal midfielder has stepped into the jersey at United upon Juan Mata’s exit. However, it won’t be the now-vacant No.18 shirt Frenkie de Jong will be eyeing if a United transfer is finalised this summer.
Despite Barcelona’s recent claims that the Netherlands playmaker is not for sale, United are still confident of getting a deal over the line. They have already agreed a deal in principle for De Jong and believe the Spanish giants are trying to up the ante, amid Chelsea’s reported interest.
READ MORE: Bruno Fernandes must now deliver for Manchester United after being granted wish
At Barcelona and Ajax, the 25-year-old opted to don the No.21. That shirt at United was left open after Edinson Cavani’s exit and still remains available after new arrival Tyrell Malacia was handed the No.12, it has been confirmed.
There’s a heartfelt reason behind why De Jong has an affiliation with the 21 shirt. “I feel comfortable with that number,” he explained upon his Barcelona arrival in 2019.
"I brought my whole family to my presentation in Barcelona, except my grandfather, Hans de Jong, my father's father. He died on the day of my 21st birthday.
“Unconsciously it is also a kind of tribute. He was a huge football fan."
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