FIFA says Tevez saga could go to Court of Arbitration

The Argentina forward wants to join United, but the move is at an impasse as both West Ham United, who he played for last season, and businessman Kia Joorabchian both claim to own his registration.

The English Football Association and the Premier League both asked FIFA to make a judgment but a statement from world football's ruling body said: "FIFA has recommended that West Ham and Carlos Tevez seek arbitration at CAS.

"Under the present circumstances this was deemed to be the best approach and in the interest of all parties.

"What is more, we also believe this to be the fastest way to solve this impasse."

CAS has yet to announce if it will in fact hear the case.

Should the deal be allowed to go through, United are expected to pay up to 30 million pounds (60 million dollars) for Tevez.

Joorabchian claims he still owns the striker's economic rights and is therefore entitled to the transfer fee.

"Under the circumstances it was felt it would be in the best interest of all parties to take this course.

"It looks like being the fastest way of resolving this matter.

"It is not a refusal by FIFA to get involved, quite the contrary. It is a recommendation by FIFA to opt for this way." dpa