Manuel Ugarte, aged 23, is on the verge of completing his £50 million transfer to Manchester United before the summer transfer window closes at 11 pm on Friday. The Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) midfielder has been a top target for United as they seek to strengthen their defensive midfield options throughout the summer.
However, even if the deal is finalised before the transfer deadline, Ugarte will not be eligible to play against Liverpool, as his signing must be confirmed by midday for him to participate in that fixture.
In terms of squad numbers, Ugarte will not be wearing the No. 4 shirt, which he donned during his time at PSG. That number has already been claimed by Matthijs de Ligt following his £42 million move from Bayern Munich earlier in the month. The Uruguay international will have to select a different number, with even his former Sporting Lisbon number, 15, unavailable, as it has been taken by another new United signing, Leny Yoro.
Many other squad numbers are currently occupied in the Manchester United squad, but there are still some options available. For instance, the No. 25 shirt could be a possibility if Jadon Sancho, who is seeking a transfer, secures a move to either Chelsea or Juventus before the deadline.
The No. 13 jersey, traditionally worn by goalkeepers, is also available, along with the No. 19 shirt, which was left vacant when Raphael Varane departed in June. Additionally, Ugarte could choose any number between 26 and 34 or opt for numbers 38, 40, 42, 45, or any number higher than 47.
Another possibility is that Ugarte might take over the No. 39 shirt, which is expected to become available soon. Scott McTominay, who currently holds that number, is reportedly on the brink of joining Napoli in a £25 million deal. The 27-year-old Scottish midfielder is in Italy finalising the move to Antonio Conte’s team, which would free up the No. 39 shirt for Ugarte at Manchester United.
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