Sofyan Amrabat given Man United shirt number Raphael Varane was 'blocked' from taking

Sofyan Amrabat has been given the shirt number that Raphael Varane was blocked from taking.

On transfer deadline day, Moroccan international Amrabat completed a loan move to United from Italian Serie A side Fiorentina.

The Old Trafford club had been chasing the midfielder for the majority of the summer transfer window, but had to be mindful of financial fair play. As a result, they only managed to strike a loan deal towards the end of the transfer window.

On Tuesday afternoon, it was confirmed that he will wear the No.4 shirt during his stay at Old Trafford.

The No.4 shirt was reportedly a number that Varane wanted when he joined United from Real Madrid.

However, he was prevented from wearing his preferred number by Phil Jones.

According to the Manchester Evening News, Varane requested the No.4 shirt but Jones refused to give it up.

The Frenchman settled for the number 19 shirt instead and has been wearing it ever since.

Upon joining the club, the 27-year-old said: “It is a huge honour to become a Manchester United player. I’ve had to be patient for this moment but I’m someone who always listens to my heart and now I am representing the club of my dreams.

“I am a passionate player; I want to bring that energy to the squad, and I will put everything into every action I take for the team.”

Amrabat continued: ““I know exactly how Erik ten Hag likes to work and what he needs from his players. His coaching and guidance developed me so much as a player earlier in my career.

“I know that he will help to bring out the best of my abilities so that I can help the group to be successful this season.”

Amrabat could make his United debut against Brighton and Hove Albion after the international break.