The report suggested that Atletico bosses have been tracking the player since his impressive performance in the Nations Cup 2008 as he led the Pharaohs to their sixth title and was voted the best player of the tournament.

Sporting director Jesus Garcia Pitarch is expected to hold talks with the player’s agent on Thursday in order to sign him this summer.

Abd-Rabou, 24, is at the center of controversy as he is involved in a contractucal dispute between Ismaili and Strasbourg.

The Spanish newspaper revealed that English Premier League sides Middlesbrough and Portsmouth are also interested in signing him.