Mason Mount could grab his favourite squad number at Manchester United if his proposed transfer goes through - but there will be some red tape for the England international to tackle first.
Mount, 24, is preparing to leave Stamford Bridge when the market reopens and United are in pole position to win the race for his signature. Mount's representatives - father Tony and agent Neil Fewings - have held advanced talks with key figures at Old Trafford and they have settled on important details.
As things stand, there has been no agreement between the clubs when it comes to a fee and so United must wait a little while longer before potentially unveiling Mount as their first summer signing. However, it appears as though they have a free run at the Chelsea midfielder.
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Arsenal and Liverpool were thought to be interested. However, as they prepare to tot-up further numbers in the boardroom, staff in the United megastore might also be checking their stockroom to see exactly what letters and numbers they have in the building for Mount's anticipated arrival.
Throughout his Chelsea career, the 36-cap England international has worn number 19 and that is also the jersey he donned during a previous loan spell with Vitesse, and for England at two major tournaments. It might ordinarily be a simple decision for him to make in that respect.
However, former Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane is currently assigned that particular squad number. Varane could, though, opt for a change to number four this summer as United prepare to wave goodbye to long-serving centre-back Phil Jones when his contract expires. Varane donned the number four at Real Madrid and with the France national team prior to his international retirement.
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