Nicolas Anelka has been blocked from moving to Algeria due to his age.
The French striker was set to sign for Nasr Athletique d'Hussein-Dey, before the Algerian Football Federation stopped the deal because it would breach league rules.
"The rules concerning foreign players being allowed to play in the Algerian league are clear. Only those aged under 27 and playing on the international level for their countries are allowed to sign up," said president of the Algerian professional football league, Mahfoud Kerbadj.
Anelka has been without a permanent club since leaving West Bromwich Albion last year, although he did play in the inaugural Indian Super League for Mumbai City.
The 35-year-old has previously played for Real Madrid, Arsenal and Chelsea.
