Representatives of Carlos Tevez will try to finalise the Argentina striker's hugely-complicated move to Manchester United within the next week.
The player's agent Kia Joorabchian had hoped to announce a deal was in place already but has been thwarted by the Premier League's insistence that the transfer is conducted through West Ham.
The Hammers for their part last night threw the proposed move into turmoil by insisting there is no agreement in place for him to join the champions.
Joorabchian insisted he had been given permission by West Ham to hold discussions with other clubs.
A statement from Joorabchian's lawyers said: "We confirm that Carlos Tevez has, with the knowledge and permission of West Ham been in discussions with other clubs.
"Subsequently, personal terms have now been agreed with Manchester United.
"Carlos Tevez's representatives will work during the course of next week so that a move to Manchester United can be finalised as quickly as possible.
"The process for finalising the player's registration with Manchester United will be undertaken in accordance with appropriate procedures."