Saudi club Ittihad Jeddah have halted their negotiations with their Egyptian counterparts Ismaily over landing international midfielder Hosni Abd-Rabou until the Saudi team play the two legs of the AFC Champions league round of 16 by the end of May. After Abd-Rabou's recent outstanding performances in the Saudi league, reports claimed that the Saudi giants have tabled a 1.5 million euro offer for Ismaily – including the player's share – to sign the international midfielder for a season-long loan. Ismaily, who are currently facing a major financial crisis, had initially asked for two million euros for Abd-Rabou. According to Saudi daily newspaper Al Eqtisadiah on Tuesday, the team preferred to postpone sending its representatives for the Egyptian club to keep the veteran player focused until the anticipated games in the Champions League. The 27-year-old player, whose current contract with Ismaily runs for another two seasons, quickly adapted to his teammates and recently said he was "enjoying his experience" in Saudi football. The Pharaohs star has welcomed sealing a permanent move to Ittihad Jeddah whose Spanish Coach Raul Caneda has clearly expressed his wish to hold onto the gifted player. (For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter:@AO Sports)
