French seek clear FIFA ruling on Ben Arfa transfer

Lausanne - The French Football Federation (FFF) have requested that FIFA make a clear ruling on the case of French international midfielder Hatem Ben Arfa's contested move to Nice.

Ben Arfa was on loan at Hull City from Newcastle United during the first half of the season and FIFA have said he cannot sign for Nice because a player cannot appear for more than two clubs in the same season.

Andre Soulier, president of the Professional Football League's (LFP) legal commission said they have asked the FFF to contact FIFA for a "clear and firm" ruling on Ben Arfa's case.

FIFA have said that because the 27-year-old turned out for Newcastle's under-21 team at the beginning of the season in an official match, he cannot join a third team in the current season.

It means his proposed move to Nice cannot be rubber stamped by the FFF, effectively leaving the player without a club until next season.

"We can confirm that FIFA have been contacted by the FFF and this question is now being studied by our services," a spokesman for world football's governing body told AFP.

By putting the ball back into FIFA's court, the LFP are guarding against eventual legal action. Contrary to a simple warning an official decision can be contested.

"It's up to Mr Ben Arfa if he considers that the response doesn't satsify him, to do so (take legal action)," said Soulier.