Player agent Tony Rallis was today reported to have brokered a deal between the A-League newcomers and Saudi club, Al-Shabab - who were last month linked  with a move for Socceroo Mark Bresciano.

Griffiths was said to have flown out of Australia last night to finalise the big money move to the Middle East and become the first Aussie to play in the Saudi league.

But United today denied a deal had been done - but did not respond to questions on Griffiths' current whereabouts.

A statement from the club quoted owner Clive Palmer: "The article in today's Sydney Morning Herald about Adam Griffiths is inaccurate in many respects and contained no confirmation or comment from our club.

"Tony Rallis does not act on behalf of Adam Griffiths, nor does he represent Gold Coast United. We have not signed anything that constitutes the transfer of Adam Griffiths to any club."

Gold Coast have been determined to keep all their rostered players in the past, successfully dodging bids to lure their players away, including an audacious deal by Wellington Phoenix to sell Shane Smeltz on the night he picked up last season's Golden Boot award.

The club today refused to comment any further.