Cristiano Ronaldo is set to reclaim jersey number 7 at Manchester United after rejoining the Red Devils just before the closure of the transfer window.
Edinson Cavani, who is currently allocated seven, is reportedly willing to give up the cherished shirt, which Ronaldo donned before moving to Real Madrid.
There is a precedent for changing Premier League squad numbers during the season, it has emerged.
Ronaldo’s Old Trafford return was finally confirmed Tuesday, with the Portugal star completing his dramatic move from Juventus and becoming a United player for the second time in his career.
Ronaldo made his name during his first spell at Old Trafford wearing the squad number seven, which was previously worn by club heroes, including, George Best, Bryan Robson, David Beckham and Eric Cantona.
However, the shirt number has already been allocated to Cavani for this season and even if the Uruguayan was prepared to give it up, the Premier League would have to agree to the change.
Rule M4 in the Premier League handbook states:
While he remains with the Club a Player will retain his shirt number throughout the season for which it was allocated.
The Telegraph reports that the issue of Ronaldo’s shirt number was raised in talks when the sensational deal for the player was agreed on last week.
Ronaldo’s CR7 brand has been used to sell underwear, hotels, gyms, nutritional supplements and cologne, as well as sports merchandise, and is a major earner.
While Cavani wore seven in United’s 1-0 win at Wolves this weekend, it looks increasingly likely that he would be open to the switch probably to number 21 he wears for Uruguay.
It is currently worn by Daniel James whose move to Leeds United is reportedly imminent.
More: Daily Mirror