Frank Lampard has no agreement to join New York City FC, according to the Premier League.
The new club, which enters Major League Soccer this year, announced the signing of Lampard on a two-year contract in July.
But the 36-year-old subsequently moved to Manchester City -- reportedly on loan, but with a short-term contract that, on Dec. 31, was extended for the rest of the European season.
It came after talks involving five parties -- both clubs, the Premier League, MLS and Lampard himself -- and provoked criticisms from fans in New York who had bought season tickets.
And now the Premier League, while clearing Manchester City of wrongdoing in the issues of Lampard's contract and ownerships, has cast further doubt if the former England international will ever play for New York by saying there is no deal finalised for Chelsea's record goalscorer to sign for them.
"Frank Lampard is registered as a Manchester City player until the end of the 2014-15 season," a statement said.
"The Premier League has sought and received assurances from Manchester City that there is no agreement in place between the club or City Football Group with New York City FC relating to the player."
Major League Soccer commissioner Don Garber told Sports Illustrated earlier this week that when Lampard's move to NYCFC was initially announced, the player actually agreed not with the new club but with the City Football Group, a worldwide company run by owner Sheikh Mansour that owns both clubs and Australia's Melbourne City.
"We need to work hard now to move forward and recognise that Frank will be joining this team in July," Garber said.
New York City director of football Claudio Reyna said on Dec. 31 that Lampard would cross the Atlantic to join them, stating: "He is eager to get to New York once his commitment ends in England and will be available to play on arrival as a permanent member of the squad given he will come to us having played at the highest level."
However a club statement said the date of Lampard's arrival is uncertain: "His exact starting date with New York City FC will be confirmed as the EPL and MLS seasons unfold."
ESPN FC's Jeff Carlisle contributed to this report.