The Carlos Tevez affair has taken a dramatic new twist with FIFA recommending the matter be referred to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.Manchester United are hoping to sign the Argentinian forward from West Ham, but the Hammers are refusing to sanction the move amid complications over his registration.

And the world football's governing body believe their decision is in the best interests of all parties.

FIFA spokesman Andreas Herren said: "The recommendation from FIFA to the FA and the Premier League is to go to the Court of Arbitration for Sport."

West Ham were eager for FIFA to get involved in what has become a stalemate in recent weeks, with the London club refusing to sanction the Argentina striker's proposed move to Manchester United.

Tevez is registered as their player, but businessman Kia Joorabchian claims he owns the 23-year-old's economic rights and is therefore entitled to his transfer fee.

The Premier League, however, say the Hammers own the player and therefore must receive any such fee.

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