"I was very surprised when I heard these claims," Al-Badri told Al-Hayat channel.

"The technical staff did not even discuss any plans for the new season. Releasing Al-Shater is entirely unreasonable."

Rumors surfaced that Al-Shater is no longer in Manuel Jose's plans despite being considered as Ahli's best option on the right flank.

Mercurial midfielder Mohamed Barakat was fielded as a right-back on numerous occasions during Ahli's triumphant league campaign, but he prefers to play as a playmaker.

Ahmed Adel and Ahmed Sedik failed to impress when they filled in for the 31-year-old Al-Shater.

The former Ismaili man's campaign was blighted by injuries, but he remains an integral first-team member.

Unlikely Signing

Al-Badri also revealed that Ahli are highly unlikely to sign Ankaragucu's unsettled defender Ibrahim Saied.

"After signing seven players, we will fail to find vacant places in our squad to add further players."

"We are targeting Mansoura's Ahmed Ali. If we manage to complete the transfer, our close-season signings will probably come to an end," he added.

Jose has reportedly asked the club's board to sign Saied due to shortage of defensive options, especially after sweeper Emad Al-Nahhas sustained a serious injury.

However, the board refused to grant the Portuguese his wish, as they believed Saied wouldn't be able to ditch the 'bad boy' image that accompanied him throughout his career.

Saied's previous stint was Ahli was marred by several disputes with the Red Devils' board.