DUBAI // Al Dhafra have dismissed reports linking them with a move for Brazilian Luiz Henrique, who has yet to start negotiating with Emirates about an extension to his two-year deal, which comes to an end this summer.
Henrique, 33, has been one of the most consistent performers in the Arabian Gulf League and the midfielder has been shortlisted for the AGL’s Foreign Player of the Year Award after a season during a season that has seen him make 24 league appearances and score nine goals.
Despite his impressive form, Emirates do not appear in any hurry to renew Henrique’s deal, while Dhafra, who have been linked with the Brazilian, insist they are yet to make an approach.
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“At the moment, we are just looking at our options,” Khamis Al Mansoori, the Vice-President of the Dhafra Football Company, told reporters. “We are looking at options that can add to the strengths of our team for the new season, but there is plenty of time and we are in no rush.
“We reveal the identity of our players, including the foreign players, at the right time.”
Al Mansoori did reveal Dhafra are keen to keep Iraq’s Humam Tariq, who is on loan from Al Ahli. The deal for the 19-year-old midfielder expires at the end of this season.
Henrique, meanwhile, said he would be happy to continue with Emirates, but the club have not approached either him or his Brazilian compatriot Alexandro for an extension. The club have announced a one-year extension for coach Paulo Comelli.
“The management has not contacted us yet,” Henrique said. “I am a professional player and if the club asks me to stay, I would be more than happy because of the time I have spent here. If not, I will look for other options.
“But, of course, my first priority will be Emirates because I have spent a long time here and there is mutual respect, which encourages me to stay on with the club.”
Emirates have also announced one-year extensions for veteran defender Haidar Alo Ali and midfielder Abdullah Ali.
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