Manchester United have made Frenkie de Jong's dream shirt number available as discussions with Barcelona continue over a £70million transfer.
New manager Erik ten Hag has instructed his club to sign De Jong, who he worked with at Ajax before the player's move to Camp Nou three years ago.
It is hoped that De Jong will be the first signing of the Ten Hag era at United, though the player is reportedly needing some convincing to leave Barca.
De Jong is reluctant to join United due to a lack of Champions League football on offer, though Barca's willingness to cash in on him has reportedly led to a change of heart.
A further feather in United's cap is De Jong's possible shirt number at United. De Jong wears No.21 at Barcelona, which is his favourite number as he told Voetbal International in 2019: "I feel comfortable with that number.
"I could easily play with another number, you know, it's not a problem, but it is nice that it also gives people a way of recognising me.
"I brought my whole family to my presentation in Barcelona, except my grandfather Hans de Jong, my father's father. He died on the day of my 21st birthday. Unconsciously it is also a kind of tribute. He was a huge football fan."
The No21 is now free at United following Friday's confirmation of 11 exits, including Edinson Cavani.
Cavani wore No21 - the same he wears for Uruguay - during his two years in Manchester. It has previously been worn by Daniel James and Ander Herrera in recent years.
