Brighton & Hove Albion star Yves Bissouma remains at the Amex despite a summer transfer window littered with relentless speculation touting him with a move away from the Seagulls.
Manchester United were one of the side's most heavily linked with a move for the Mali international, and Bissouma has only gone and added further fuel to those rumours with his latest social media activity.
The Brighton midfielder took to Instagram to heap praise on Cristiano Ronaldo, who is set to make a triumphant return to Old Trafford 12 years after he originally called time on his United career to move to Real Madrid.
Bissouma wrote on social media: "A source of inspiration for all fanatics and passionate about football of all levels, respect and consideration at 36 years you are still at an incredible level for me you are more than a legend !! welcome to Premier League #King #CR7"
His glowing tribute sparked somewhat of a frenzy online among the United faithful, who interpreted his message as a hint Old Trafford is Bissouma's ideal destination.
One Man Utd supporter wrote "Bissouma would of been ideal in this United side too, better than Rice", his sentiments echoed by another fan who claimed: "We should bring this monster in, Bissouma would be perfect."
While Brighton boss Graham Potter will undoubtedly be overjoyed he has managed to keep hold of Bissouma through the summer window, he is likely to face another stern test on that front in January.
Despite the window only shutting two days ago, rumours are already rife over a battle for Bissouma's signature between Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool - the three sides constantly linked with him earlier this year.
According to the Metro, there remains "long-standing interest" in Bissouma from a number of sides, including the aforementioned trio - who could all spark a bidding war in January.
The 25-year-old midfielder still has two years left to run on his current deal, ensuring next summer is the last chance the Brighton hierarchy will have to cash in on one of their brightest stars.
Where will Bissouma play his football next season? Have your say here.
Despite the relentless speculation linking him with the Amex exit, Brighton surprisingly received no official bids for Bissouma over the summer.
He has already enjoyed three years on the South Coast and is thought to be in no real rush to call time on his Brighton career.
The Malian joined Brighton from Ligue 1 outfit Lille in 2018 and has gone on to make 99 appearances for the club.
