Arsenal are being heavily linked with Norwegian wonderkid Sverre Nypan in the transfer window, although they face competition from a number of clubs for his signature.
The Gunners are in need of a forward acquisition this month but have also set their sights on landing one of Europe’s hottest midfield prospects.
Aston Villa and Girona are interested in Nypan, and it’s said that the decision will ultimately come down to the player himself.
Girona would be looking to sign him with a view to allowing him to leave for Manchester City in the future.
Manchester United have also been linked with the 18-year-old, although Martin Odegaard is trying to convince Nypan to join Arsenal and reject the Red Devils.
In the midst of the race to secure the teenager, Mikel Arteta may have a minor issue that could impact the player’s decision.
Sverre Nypan shirt number history
If Nypan does make the switch to the Emirates, then he’ll have to select an Arsenal shirt number upon his arrival.
Since breaking into the Rosenborg first team, the playmaker has worn just one number.
Taking the seven and eight shirts in his youth career, Nypan has only ever worn the number 41 shirt at senior level.
Declan Rice currently dons the 41 at Arsenal, potentially creating an issue for the incoming youngster on this front.
The Englishman has taken the unique shirt number since breaking into West Ham’s first team, and won’t be in a hurry to give it up.
This likely means that Nypan would have to compromise if he is to walk through the doors at London Colney before the end of the transfer window.
41 is coincidentally available at City.
Arsenal squad numbers available to Nypan
Nypan has been spotted in England ahead of a potential move, so he’s almost certain to end up in the Premier League.
Thus, Arsenal will be making plans over administrative details such as the player’s squad number, in the scenario that they seal the deal.
The number ten is available after Emile Smith Rowe departed in the summer, although it would be reasonable to assume that this prestigious shirt will be reserved for a more senior player.
Meanwhile, the iconic number 14, worn by Thierry Henry at Arsenal, is also up for grabs and could be attractive to Nypan as it contains the same numbers as 41.
13 and 16 are the only other two numbers under 20 that aren’t currently taken in the squad.
Aside from that, Nypan could pick 24, 25, 26, 31 or 32.
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