West Ham United are having second thoughts about signing Samir Nasri.
Earlier reports in the English press had suggested a deal was imminent.
But the Evening Standardclaims that fitness concerns mean the deal is now hanging by a thread.
Nasri will be cleared to play at the end of December, following the conclusion a drugs ban.
But he has not been playing or training with a club in the meantime, leading West Ham to wonder when he will be ready for Premier League action.
Nasri is demanding wages of around £80,000 per week, but the Hammers want to offer a deal that is contingent on appearances.
The attacking midfielder is wanted by manager Manuel Pellegrini, who worked with him at Manchester City.