Uncertainty looms large over Karimi transfer

Dubai: Iranian midfielder Ali Karimi has reportedly been lured back by Dubai club Al Ahli according to information posted on the club's official website yesterday.

But the transfer details are shrouded by uncertainty due to statements made by Karimi's current employers Bayern Munich

While the defending UAE league champions trumpeted their acquisition, Uli Hoeness, Bayern's business manager, said yesterday that Karimi would remain with the German club until his contract expires.

"We have spoken to him and he will stay with us until the end of his contract," said Hoeness. "And then after that there is no news yet."

Karimi, who joined German league champions Bayern Munich in 2005 after playing with Al Ahli for four years, failed to secure a regular place with the German club. He was also injured and sidelined for many games. This was affecting his status as a professional and his standings within the Iranian national team.

Al Ahli were keen to see their gifted midfielder returning and this was boosted by the poor performance of their Bulgarian import Martin Kambrouve who is set to be offloaded in the new season.

A dissatisfied Karimi has reportedly expressed his wish to return to Al Ahli.

Bayern manager Felix Magath also stated in Dubai that the player who was currently playing in Karimi's place was doing well thus ruling out the Iranian's return to action.