Since the turn of the year, Timo Werner has been linked with a number of Premier League clubs, most notably Liverpool who have been tipped to meet the RB Leipzig forward's release clause.
However, with reports now suggesting that the Merseyside giants may opt against an approach for the Germany international, Chelsea and Manchester United have emerged as potential destinations.
The 24-year-old is said to be open to a switch to Old Trafford, aware that he is likely to hold down a regular spot in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's starting lineup.
Here, Sports Mole looks at the shirt numbers likely to be available for Werner should he sign for the North-West giants before the end of the next transfer window.
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With the number 11 shirt currently vacant at United, Werner taking over that jersey - which he wears at Leipzig - upon his possible arrival at Old Trafford appears to be a natural move.
However, Jadon Sancho may also have his eyes set on that number, famously worn by Ryan Giggs, and the double arrival would realistically see Werner or the England international in contention for that shirt.
That said, it will also be noted that United's iconic number seven shirt is also vacant. With Sancho holding that number at Dortmund, logic suggests that he would want the same at United.
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All things considered, no other numbers are likely to enter the equation. Despite his versatility in defensive and central areas, Atletico Madrid's Saul Niguez may look to take over the number seven shirt.
Nevertheless, if the Spaniard is to move to United, the cost of any transfer would almost certainly lead to United selling Paul Pogba, who would subsequently vacate number six.
There is also a scenario that Bruno Fernandes could swap his number 18 short for either seven or 11, although the Portuguese playmaker had the option of taking either jersey when he signed for United in January.
Darren Plant
