It looks very likely that City  will have to wait while a  legal battle over the transfer of Steven Whittaker resolves itself. The Scot needed International clearance  to be able to register for City, but this has been denied by the SFA.

International clearance has not been granted for the transfers of Steven Naismith, Steven Whittaker, Steve Davis, Kyle Lafferty or Jamie Ness.

The quintet have found new clubs after refusing to have their contracts transferred to a newco Rangers.

But, with Rangers seeking compensation, the Scottish FA will not provide authorisation for the moves.

Fifa are expected to grant temporary registrations while the world governing body rules on the matter.

Clubs request international transfer clearance (ITC) through their own national association, who then contact the SFA who, in turn, contact the club the player is leaving.

However, in this case, the issue is muddied by Rangers FC plc being consigned to liquidation and the newco Rangers having not yet become members of the SFA.

Eleven players have refused to join the new company set up by Charles Green after he purchased the assets of the Ibrox club.

Those leaving have been advised by their union that they do so as free agents.

Green contests this and has written to all clubs in England warning that the players are in breach of contract.

PFA Scotland say Green is deliberately misrepresenting the contract situation, with union chairman Tony Higgins last week saying: "I haven't spoken to a single employment or sports solicitor who agrees with Mr Green's interpretation of the law."

Fifa say they have received no requests on behalf of any former Rangers players.

Source BBC  Sport