Manchester United are unlikely to offer Sandro Tonali and Ederson their preferred squad numbers should the midfielders join this summer. Michael Carrick is keen to strengthen his midfield after Casemiro's departure, with Newcastle's Tonali and Atalanta's Ederson top targets. A verbal agreement with Ederson on a five-year deal is reported, with talks ongoing over a £43m move.
Tonali has been linked with United for months, and Newcastle's failure to qualify for European football may aid the pursuit. The Magpies demand £86m for the Italian, but United are confident of securing both signings for a combined £129m. However, both players' favoured numbers are taken at Old Trafford.
Tonali has worn the number eight since his AC Milan days, but Bruno Fernandes holds that shirt at United. The number 18, vacated by Casemiro, is available and could be an option. Ederson has worn 13 at Atalanta, but Patrick Dorgu claimed that number after joining in January 2025. The nearest available number is 12, following Tyrell Malacia's departure, with 19 and 22 also free.
Both Fernandes and Dorgu are key to Carrick's long-term plans, so number changes are unlikely. Carrick will need to offer more than squad numbers to secure the double signing this summer.
