The Saudi Al-Hilal board has decided not to sign on Egyptian striker Ahmed Ali on a permanent basis, according to reports in Saudi media on Wednesday.

“It is confirmed that Al-Hilal will part with Ali at the end of the current season,” read the Saudi newspaper, Daralhayat.

To the contrary of the Daralhayat report, it’s believed that the Pharaohs’ hitman will stay with the gulf team as he gains the appreciation of the club’s officials and fans.

“Ali is a good and skilled player. What makes him unique is his strength and enthusiasm,” Al-Hilal president Prince Bin Musaid was quoted as saying in the Saudi Al Jazeera newspaper last month.

The talented striker joined the Saudi giants in January on a six-month loan deal from Egypt’s Ismaily. After an unsuccessful start, he has become an integral member of the team amid reports that they are aiming to make his loan deal permanent.

“The club board will begin their search in European leagues for a new African player,” added Daralhayat.

The 22-year-old Ali has scored five goals for Al-Hilal in all competitions so far, leading them to clinch the Saudi Crown Prince Cup title - the 51st in their history.