
Cristiano Ronaldo is one of Manchester United's most renowned No7s, and he could be set to make an extraordinary comeback to the club.
United is said to have held talks with Ronaldo's agent, Jorge Mendes, about a sensational transfer from Juventus. Man City were offered the 36-year-old, who has stated his desire to leave Italy, and were considered front-runners for his signing, but have decided not to pursue the move.
City considered the prospect after missing out on Harry Kane, but ultimately decided that the Portuguese was not the right fit for Pep Guardiola's squad.
When United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer addressed a press conference on Friday afternoon, he stated that their former star "knows that we're here."
Ronaldo has made the number seven shirt his own, much like Michael Jordan did with the number 23. The Portuguese forward has built his identity around the initials CR7.
That means Ronaldo is unlikely to accept anything less than the same legendary number he previously wore at United, which has also been worn by Denis Law, George Best, Bryan Robson, Eric Cantona, and David Beckham.
However, Edinson Cavani now has the iconic squad number and would be displeased if it were to be taken away from him by another big-name player, even if it were Ronaldo.
The problem could be resolved if Cavani leaves United, as the striker's future at the club is uncertain given his desire to play for Uruguay during the upcoming international breaks.
Due to UK quarantine restrictions, Cavani would be unavailable for major portions of the season, and it remains to be seen whether United's late drive for Ronaldo is a result of Cavani's developing predicament.
The No7 is currently unavailable, as are the Nos. 9 (Anthony Martial) and 28 (Facundo Pellistri), the other two numbers he has worn in his career.If Ronaldo is unable to wear the No. 7 shirt, he can currently use the numbers 12, 15, 24, 30, 31, 33, and 35.