West Ham United have hit a slight snag as they continue their pursuit of Monaco striker Dieumerci Mbokani.
The Hammers face a fight to obtain a work permit for the Congo international as his nation is only ranked 130th in the world, making him under-qualified for the required visa.
West Ham have sought special arrangements to get Mbokani to Upton Park on loan after Congolese club Mazeme last week qualified for the Club World Cup, proving their quality on the world stage.
Mbokani joined Monaco from Belgian club Standard Liege in the summer but has struggled in the French Ligue 1 since his move.