The French Football Federation (FFF) sent FIFA confirming that Strasbourg are holding on to their rights in the Egyptian international's contract, a letter that the Egyptian FA received a copy from.

An EFA source said that this letter will not affect Ismaili's rights to register Abd-Rabou.

The source, who didn't want to be named, told FilGoal.com: "Abd-Rabou eligible to play for Ismaili unless FIFA said otherwise."

Abd-Rabou joined Ismaili from Strasbourg on loan in January, with an option for a permanent move should the Egyptian side pay €500,000 on June 15th.

Strasbourg said Ismaili didn’t pay the amount in time while Ismaili deny the claim.