Wout Weghorst can't wear No.7 shirt at Man United because it's 'promised to other target'

Wout Weghourst won't be able to wear the No.7 shirt at Manchester United ahead of his proposed transfer because it's 'promised' to another target.

The Burnley player has emerged as a surprise loan target for Erik ten Hag, who is looking to snap up a striker during the January transfer window following the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Weghorst, who is currently on at Besiktas, has scored nine goals in 18 games in all competitions this season.

He scored in his side's win over Kasimpasa on Saturday and appeared to wave goodbye to the fans following his goal.

Wout Weghorst celebrates scoring for the Netherlands against Argentina at the 2022 World Cup. Image: Alamy

His potential shirt number at Man United has been mooted as he closes in on a shock move to Old Trafford.

Per Manchester Evening News, the realistic options for the towering Dutch striker would be; 7, 13, 15, 16, 24, 26, 27 or 30.

However, the 30-year-old can rule out the No.7 shirt as the Red Devils are 'ready to hand' Joao Felix the club's iconic jersey if he makes the switch this month.

What's more, Portuguese outlet A Bola claim CEO Richard Arnold has told the 23-year-old forward that the shirt number is 'ready for him'.

The Portugal international currently wears the No.7 shirt at Atletico Madrid.

Felix has been the subject of intense transfer speculation, with Arsenal and Chelsea thought to be keeping tabs on him ahead of making an offer.

The La Liga club are holding out for a hefty fee, with reports stating that they are demanding a £9.5 million loan fee and a commitment to buy for a staggering £70.5 million.

He joined Atletico for a club-record £113 million from Benfica in 2019. But he's largely failed to impress and has fallen out of favour with Diego Simeone, who left him out of the squad for Wednesday's Copa del Rey win over Oviedo.

Felix to Man United? Watch this space.