Asamoah Gyan says his next move could be to sign on permanently with Al-Ain, ruling out a possible return to the English premiership.
The Ghana striker who played for the UAE side on a season-long loan from Sunderland but he is returning to the Black Cats ahead of a decision following the expiration of the deal.
But Gyan expects an announcement on his future to be made before pre-season starts in July as he admits his interest in the Al-Ain offer.
Speaking on Monday ahead of a charity game in Kumasi between Ghana internationals and artist from the entertainment industry on Sunday, Gyan expressed his determination to stay in the Gulf region.
"Al-Ain have shown an interest [signing me on permanently]," said Gyan, who enjoyed a successful spell in the UAE league where he finished as the league's top scorer with 19 goals.
"I am also interested in [staying]. I like the place and my family are also in love with the place."
The Ghanaian in September 2011 started a season long loan contract with Al-Ain from the English side.