Bruno Fernandes uploaded a cryptic message to his Instagram story as Manchester United continue to explore a deal to sign the Portugal international.
United see Fernandes as an appealing mid-season addition but are baffled by Sporting's €80million valuation of the 25-year-old.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is short of options in midfield after long-term injuries to Scott McTominay and Paul Pogba. United's midfield three in the defeat by Liverpool on Sunday was comprised of Fred, Nemanja Matic and Andreas Pereira.
Taking to Instagram on Sunday, Fernandes shared a picture of Simba from the Lion King along with the caption: "Be somebody that nobody believed you would be."
Given how protracted negotiations between United, Sporting and Fernandes' party are turning out to be, it is unlikely that Fernandes will be eligible to play against Burnley on Wednesday night.
United need to have registered Fernandes as their player by midday on Tuesday if they want him to make his debut this week.
The transfer window closes at 11pm on January 31.