Arsenal will likely undergo a squad overhaul this summer and this means, among other things, shirt numbers will be up for grabs among other things. So we decided to take a look at what the Gunners can offer in this regard to further seduce their targets.
Number 2
Hector Bellerin is almost nailed on to leave and that means any potential right-back we sign (Aarons/Lamptey) can have a clear shot at number 2 shirt. Beautiful.
Number 5
If we do sign a right-sided centre-back, he'll be able to take up the number Sokratis vacated, a traditional CB number. If we don't, we'll be all for giving the shirt to Holding/Mari.
Number 8
Dani Ceballos is gone, so his shirt number is free. We can offer to Ruben Neves, Yves Bissouma or any other central midfielder in our sights. Joe Willock might be another option here too.
Number 9
Alex Lacazette's future is uncertain and number 9 shirt is probably one of the most recognised in football. However, given that we are hardly linked with CFs these days and Auba is unlikely to want a number switch, we'd be all for giving the shirt to Flo Balogun. Show he has a future, and a responsibility.
Number 10
How ironic is that we have the number 10 shirt vacant in a season where we struggle with creativity? Give it to Odegaard or another playmaker we sign - or offer it to Smith Rowe. The kid deserves it.
Number 11
Vacated by first Torreira and then Odegaard, it was a strange choice for a central midfielder/playmaker anyway. Should we sign Sterling/Mahrez (yeah, we don't really believe it can happen either), offer them the 11 number. Failing that, give it to Gabi Martinelli.
Number 12
A number that associates with the fans, worn by Giroud and then Willian (what a joke). Willian will likely be gone and we think it's time to give it to someone popular with the fans. Either a marquee signing or someone like Smith Rowe.
Number 13
