Manchester United could make Bruno Fernandes their first signing of the January transfer window.
MEN Sport understand the club are exploring the possibility of a move for the Portuguese midfielder amid an injury crisis which has seen both Scott McTominay and Paul Pogba sidelined.
United were 'irritated' by the perpetual links with the 25-year-old in the summer window but now view him as an appealing option as they look to bolster their options midway through the season.
The Sporting No.8 has scored 14 goals and assisted 13 this season and would add much-needed creativity to the United midfield. However, he wouldn't be allowed his preferred squad number yet. Not only would he be vying with Juan Mata for a starring role, he'd be doing so for his current number eight shirt, too.
It isn't all bad news for Fernandes though and here are a look at some of the potential squad numbers he could wear should he move to Old Trafford.
Finally the heir to Cristiano Ronaldo's throne? He's Portuguese, at least. The number seven shirt has been somewhat cursed over the past ten years with Michael Owen, Antonio Valencia, Angel di Maria, Memphis Depay and Alexis Sanchez all struggling under the iconic number.
More associated with a left winger, the No.11 shirt has remained vacant since Anthony Martial switched squad numbers back in the summer. Iconic with Ryan Giggs, less so with his successor Adnan Januzaj.
It used to be said ironically, but nobody actually has filled the void left by Chris Smalling in the summer. Worn by Phil Neville when United won the Treble, and by David Bellion when they didn't.
Synonymous with Dwight Yorke but not occupied since Marcus Rashford got his upgrade a couple of seasons ago. James Wilson and Danny Welbeck both also had this shirt number during their time at the club.
A shirt number Fernandes used to wear for Portugal before he switched to the No.16 shirt more recently. Last worn by Antonio Valencia and Nick Powell. Illustrious company.
Marouane Fellaini, Federico Macheda, Mikael Silvestre. Not really sure what that means, but some mixed memories are associated with this particular squad number.