The Alexandria-based club won Premier League promotion for the first time in their history last month but opted to dispense with coach Moshir Othman immediately afterwards.

Smouha chairman Farag Amer said Othman was sacked because he objected to the club's decision of changing his assistants.

Saleh has all but agreed to replace Othman, with the official announcement expected in the next few days.

The former Ismaili manager coached Egypt for two spells but could not taste success.

The first spell was a brief one in 1995 and the second lasted two years from 2002 to 2004.

He was shown the door following the 2004 African Cup of Nations after the Pharaohs suffered a first-round exit.

Saleh guided Ismaili to the last of their three league titles in 2002 after a memorable campaign that saw them beat off competition from bitter rivals and Cairo giants Ahli.

He has been out of job since leaving Saudi side Al-Hazm in November 2009.