Sane to Tottenham: Which shirt number could Bayern Munich ace wear at Spurs?
Tottenham are reportedly eyeing a sensational summer move for Bayern Munich’s electric winger, Leroy Sane.
The prospect of the German international gracing the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium pitch has set pulses racing amongst the Spurs faithful.
Should this blockbuster transfer come to fruition, one of the intriguing side notes will be which iconic number Sane could pull on in North London.
Sane’s potential shirt number
Sane’s first option is No. 7, which is arguably the most iconic number for a wide attacker or star forward in football.
At Tottenham, it’s currently held with distinction by club captain and talisman Son Heung-min.
Given Son’s immense stature and long-standing association with the number, it’s highly improbable that the No. 7 would become available.
But if recent reports of Son’s departure are to be believed, then Sane could be the perfect candidate to replace him as Spurs No. 7.
The No.11 could also be an option for the German winger.
It is traditionally a winger’s number, symbolizing speed and direct attacking play down the flanks, so this could be a very strong and fitting contender for Sane.
It’s availability would depend again on what happens with its current owner Mathys Tel, who spent last season on loan at Spurs but could see that deal made permanent.
A number which has recently become available is No. 20, after goalkeeper Frazer Forster’s departure was announced.
This number often carries a less traditional association than the single digits, but it has become a very popular choice for attacking players and forwards in modern football.
It implies a player who is a significant part of the attacking setup, a key contributor.
The No.20 shirt allows a player to define it’s significance through their performance.
Sane’s shirt number history
Sane has worn the coveted No.10 at Bayern Munich, a number synonymous with playmakers and star attackers.
At Manchester City, he famously sported the No.19, often associated with versatile forwards.
Given his role as a dynamic winger and goal contributor, several numbers could be fitting for Sane at Spurs.
Looking further back into his youth career at Schalke 04, he wore No.19, No.13, and even No.7 and No.11 at various U17 and U19 levels.
For the German national team, he has primarily worn the No.19 throughout his senior career, with a brief stint in No.20 during the 2015/16 season.
Sane will unlikely be able to continue with his Bayern number No.10, as it is currently held by creative midfielder James Maddison.
It is a similar story with the shirt he wore at Manchester City, as the No.19 shirt is currently held by striker Dominic Solanke.
Sane will likely have to select a new number for himself, as it could be a potential new adventure for the winger.