Manchester United's Pursuit of Alexis Mac Allister Hits Shirt Number Snag
Manchester United are reportedly weighing up a potential move for Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister, but the transfer already faces a significant and unusual hurdle. The Argentine international's hopes of securing his ideal shirt number at Old Trafford appear doomed from the outset, creating an unexpected complication in what could be the first direct deal between the two historic rivals since 1964.
The No. 10 Dilemma at Old Trafford
Mac Allister has exclusively worn the No. 10 shirt throughout his Premier League career, first during four successful seasons with Brighton and subsequently at Liverpool since his arrival at Anfield. However, this iconic number is currently occupied at Manchester United by Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha, who has impressed since his £62.5 million move from Wolverhampton Wanderers last summer.
Cunha has delivered consistently strong performances while wearing the No. 10 for United, making him unlikely to relinquish the prestigious digit to a prospective summer arrival. The Brazilian's current form suggests he may prove reluctant to surrender the shirt number, potentially jeopardising his momentum and confidence at a crucial stage of his Manchester United career.
Liverpool's Midfield Situation Creates Opportunity
United's interest in Mac Allister emerges against the backdrop of a challenging season for Liverpool, during which the World Cup winner has struggled to find consistent form alongside several teammates. At 27 years old with a contract running until summer 2028, Liverpool might be hesitant about offering Mac Allister another long-term extension, potentially creating an opening for United to make their move.
The circumstances surrounding Mac Allister's situation at Anfield appear more delicate than those of his midfield colleagues. While Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch also have contracts expiring in 2028, both younger players operate in more specialised roles and possess greater long-term potential, suggesting they might be prioritised in Liverpool's contract discussions.
Alternative Shirt Number Possibilities
Should the No. 10 remain unavailable, Mac Allister might consider his alternative favoured shirt number - the No. 8, which he previously wore during his brief stint with Boca Juniors. This designation currently belongs to United captain Bruno Fernandes, whose future at Old Trafford remains uncertain amid persistent links to Saudi clubs.
Fernandes' potential departure could create an opportunity for Mac Allister to inherit the No. 8 shirt, providing additional incentive for the prospective midfield signing. However, should the Portuguese international remain at United, Mac Allister would be unable to secure either of his two preferred shirt numbers, potentially requiring a compromise from the player.
Historical Context and Transfer Implications
A direct transfer between Manchester United and Liverpool would represent a rare occurrence in modern football, with the last such deal occurring over six decades ago. Mac Allister could potentially become a key component in United's efforts to reclaim their status among Europe's elite clubs, but the shirt number issue adds an unexpected layer of complexity to negotiations.
The situation highlights how seemingly minor details can significantly impact major transfer decisions. While shirt numbers might appear trivial to some observers, they often carry substantial personal and professional significance for players, potentially influencing their willingness to join new clubs and adapt to different environments.
As United continue to monitor Mac Allister's situation at Liverpool, they must weigh the importance of accommodating the player's preferences against the practical realities of their current squad configuration. The resolution of this shirt number dilemma could prove crucial in determining whether this historic transfer between Premier League powerhouses ultimately materialises.
