Shirt numbers available to Man Utd transfers, including jersey vacated by Cristiano Ronaldo

With the summer transfer window now officially open, Manchester United fans are eagerly awaiting their first arrival.

The Red Devils are keen to sign a striker and make additions in defence and midfield ahead of the 2023/24 campaign starting, although plans are being impacted by the ongoing takeover process.

It’s been reported that Kim Min-jae could be United’s first signing of the summer, with claims in Italy stating he’ll join the Red Devils on 1 July. Mason Mount is also believed to be among United’s top priorities in the market and reports suggest it’s just a case of agreeing a fee for the Chelsea midfielder.

But, should they make the move to Old Trafford, which shirt numbers are available for the likes of Min-jae, Mount and other arrivals?

There are two prime jerseys available and, for the first time in 12 years, there will be a new no.4 at United. Phil Jones’ departure means that jersey is up for grabs, with Owen Hargreaves wearing it before the departing centre-back.

The iconic no.7 - held by George Best, Eric Cantona, David Beckham et al - is also free since Cristiano Ronaldo’s mid-season departure. But the legendary shirt won’t just be given to anyone and neither of the two January loan signings were handed it.

Marcel Sabitzer wore 15 during his brief time at Old Trafford and, for now at least, that jersey is free, as is the 27 that adorned the shirt of Wout Weghorst, although it was previously assigned to Alex Telles, who spent 2022/23 at Sevilla and remains a United player.

No-one has taken 13, which was vacated by Lee Grant 12 months ago, while 24 is also unoccupied having last been held by Tim Fosu Mensah.

The shirt numbers 31, 32 and 35 are the only remaining free jerseys below 40, although others could become available depending on departures, such as: David de Gea (1), Eric Bailly (3) Harry Maguire (5), Anthony Martial (9), Mason Greenwood (11), Fred (17), Tom Heaton (22), Jadon Sancho (25) and Dean Henderson (26).

Of course, some of the vacant shirt numbers could be snapped up by existing players. For instance, Raphael Varane could fancy no.4, leaving his no.19 with no holder. That’s what happened last year when Bruno Fernandes took no.8 from the departing Juan Mata.

Available United shirt numbers under 40: 4, 7, 13, 15, 24, 27, 31, 32, 35