The Pride of Abu Dhabi are not expected to renew the short-term deal signed by Henk ten Cate upon his December arrival. Results have only mildly improved under the 61-year-old’s watch to rise to seventh in the Arabian Gulf League, while a paltry one point from their five AFC Champions League matches has been registered.

The fallen giants moved at the weekend to deny speculation about an approach for Al Hilal’s Greek boss Giorgos Donis. But overtures were made to Swiss coach Christian Gross last month, who this season ended Al Ahli Jeddah’s 32-year wait to lift the Saudi Professional League-crown.

Gross, 61, has only weeks remaining on the two-year deal signed upon arrival in the Kingdom and has refused to commit his future to the Fortress of Trophies.

“My contract with Al Ahli ends with the last game of the season,” he told Saudi media. “I have more than one offer to choose from, but the priority will be if my family wants to continue here.”

Offers to the ex-Tottenham Hotspur chief are flooding in from across the Gulf because of his exploits in the region.

Ahli won the SPL with two games to spare, are on for a domestic double when they play Al Nassr in May 27’s King Cup final and could yet progress into the knockout stages of the ACL.

Clubs from the Qatar Stars League have also registered interest, while other AGL sides are likely to be in the mix if he declines to continue in Jeddah.

Sweeping changes are again expected to occur at Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium this summer. If – as expected – Ten Cate departs, the next incumbent will be the ninth coach employed in five tumultuous years.

As is club protocol, a statement was issued on Sunday contradicting rumours from an Al Riyadh newspaper about an approach to Donis. But similar rebuttals were issued prior to the confirmation of moves for both Eric Gerets and Abel Braga.

Meanwhile, governing body the Pro League Committee have announced that the 2015/16 Arabian Gulf League Awards will be held on May 14.

The gala event at Abu Dhabi’s Emirates Palace will see winners crowned from 11 different categories, including Emirati Player of the Year, Foreign Player of the Year and Coach of the Year.