Manchester United appear to be on the verge of completing one of their most significant midfield signings of the summer, with Ederson Dos Santos reportedly closing in on a move from Atalanta to Old Trafford. As excitement grows among supporters, one question has quickly emerged: what squad number will Ederson wear if he officially joins the Red Devils?
The Brazilian international has been strongly linked with Manchester United for several months, and recent developments suggest that a deal is now close to being finalized. With personal terms expected to be completed soon, attention is beginning to shift toward how the midfielder will fit into Michael Carrick’s plans—including the shirt number he could inherit.
Manchester United Reach Agreement for Ederson
According to multiple reports, Manchester United have successfully negotiated a transfer agreement with Serie A side Atalanta for the highly-rated midfielder.
The deal is believed to be worth around £35 million, with an additional £3.9 million in performance-related bonuses, making Ederson one of United’s most notable acquisitions of the current transfer window.
Carrick has reportedly been a long-time admirer of the Brazilian’s dynamic playing style. Ederson’s ability to break up play, carry the ball forward, and contribute both defensively and offensively has made him an attractive option as United look to strengthen their midfield ahead of the new season.
The 27-year-old is expected to travel to England shortly to complete medical examinations and finalize the remaining paperwork before his transfer is officially announced.
Ederson’s Favorite Shirt Number Is Already Taken
Throughout most of his professional career, Ederson has been closely associated with the number 13 shirt.
Whether playing at club level or during various stages of his development, the Brazilian has frequently chosen No. 13 as his preferred squad number. It has become part of his footballing identity.
However, if he joins Manchester United, that number will not be available.
The No. 13 shirt is currently occupied by Patrick Dorgu, who inherited the number in 2025 and remains part of the club’s plans moving forward.
As a result, Ederson will need to select an alternative number for his first season at Old Trafford.
No. 17 Could Be the Most Natural Choice
Among the available options, the No. 17 shirt appears to be one of the strongest candidates.
Ederson has previously worn No. 17 while representing the Brazilian national team, making it a familiar choice for the midfielder.
The number also became vacant following Alejandro Garnacho’s move to Chelsea, leaving it available for a new arrival.
Given its significance to Ederson and its current availability, many supporters believe No. 17 could be the most likely option.
No. 18 and No. 25 Also Among the Leading Possibilities
Two other shirt numbers that could realistically be assigned to Ederson are 18 and 25.
The No. 18 jersey has traditionally been associated with midfield players at Manchester United. With Casemiro’s contract reportedly coming to an end, the number may soon become available.
For a Brazilian midfielder arriving from Serie A, inheriting Casemiro’s former shirt could carry symbolic significance and represent a passing of the torch between two players who share similar roles in midfield.
Meanwhile, the No. 25 shirt could also become vacant if reports regarding Manuel Ugarte’s potential departure prove accurate.
Should Ugarte leave Old Trafford this summer, No. 25 would immediately become another attractive option for Ederson.
Several Other Shirt Numbers Are Available
Beyond the most obvious choices, Manchester United currently have a number of vacant squad numbers that Ederson could select.
Available numbers reportedly include:
- No. 12
- No. 14
- No. 20
- No. 21
- No. 24
- No. 27
- No. 28
- No. 29
Each number carries its own history at the club, and the final decision may depend on Ederson’s personal preference or the club’s internal squad planning.
Some fans have already suggested that No. 14 or No. 21 could be appealing options, given their association with several notable midfielders in football history.
Ederson Expected to Play a Key Role Under Michael Carrick
Regardless of which shirt number he eventually receives, expectations surrounding Ederson’s arrival are already high.
Manchester United view the Brazilian as a player capable of adding energy, physicality, and technical quality to the middle of the park. His performances for Atalanta have earned widespread praise across Europe, and many believe he has the attributes needed to thrive in the Premier League.
With Carrick continuing to reshape the squad ahead of a crucial campaign that includes domestic and European ambitions, Ederson could quickly become an important figure in United’s midfield setup.
The official announcement may only be days away, but one thing is already clear: once Ederson arrives at Old Trafford, all eyes will be on the number he chooses to wear and the impact he can make in a Manchester United shirt.
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