Salem, who runs out of contract next July, is set to fulfill his own wish and leave Ismailia to a Cairo club in January.

After Zamalek had failed to meet Ismaili's EGP 5million price, bitter rivals Ahli seem to be frontrunners to get the 30-year-old.

Ismaili are currently in dire need for cash and the Salem deal is thought to be crucial for their financial status this season.

The Egypt international was on brink of joining Ahli last summer, but Ismaili backed down on the move, prompting the frustration of their defense star.

Meanwhile, Salem was not included in Ismaili's squad for the new African Confederation Cup.