Manchester United new boy Manucho Goncalves has yet to secure the work permit that would allow him to stay in England.
The Angolan signed a three-year contract with United before Christmas after impressing on trial, and immediately set his sights on breaking into the first team.
But he may not be able to link up with new team-mates after the African Cup of Nations - as had been planned initially - because he is having problems acquiring a work permit.
However, Manucho remains confident that Sir Alex Ferguson will find a solution that will keep his United dream alive.
"I'm having work permit difficulties," Manucho explained in the News of the World.
"Mr Ferguson promised me he will do his best to keep me on the team."
One option could be for Manucho to be loaned out to Greek club Panathinaikos until the end of the season.
Panathinaikos are managed by Portuguese coach Jose Peseiro, who has connections with United assistant boss Carlos Queiroz.