Meteb, who passed a medical before signing a two-year contract with Standard last week, was on his way back to Belgium after collecting his personal stuff.

But the 27-year-old's agent said that forces denied his exit from Egypt as his military status is still unclear.

"Meteb and I were about to make the flight to Belgium, but we were surprised to learn that he is denied from travelling," agent Nader Shawki told FilGoal.com.

"They say he is due to turn up for military duty in February.

"I can't deny that this problem could have an effect on Meteb's move to Belgium."

Reserved Ahli place

Meanwhile, Ahli vice-chairman Mahmoud Al-Khatib reflected the club's knowledge of Meteb's case, indicating that the Egypt forward's place is 'reserved'.

"I know about the problem, but we will have to react quickly as the registration window closes on Thursday," the Ahli legend told Nile Sport TV.

"I told Meteb before that his place with Ahli is reserved in case he decided to stay in Egypt. The board will discuss the matter soon."

Ahli were in talks with Meteb over an extension until very late before he decided to join Standard this month.

Should the Standard deal be cancelled, Meteb could be subject to a FIFA sanction as he had already penned a contract with the club.

The three-time African Cup of Nations winner was in a similar situation two years ago when he signed a contract with Bristol City, only for the deal to fall through after he played a Super Cup game for Ahli.