Zamalek announced early in the day that they signed the Egypt striker on a season-long loan from English Championship (second division) club Middlesbrough, with a view to a permanent move.

"We paid Middlesbrough EGP4 million to acquire Mido's services. We can also sign him permanently next summer if we pay £1 million for the English side," they said in a statement on their official website.

However, Mido revealed few hours later that Zamalek were still in talks with Boro to wrap up the deal.

"Middlesbrough initially demanded £500,000 to accept Zamalek's offer but upped their asking price afterwards," he told Al-Hayat TV.

"I'm doing my best to end the matter in Zamalek's favor. Chairman Mamdouh Abbas also engaged in direct discussions with his Middlesbrough counterpart.

"Everything might be sorted out tomorrow morning, but I'm yet to sign any contract with Zamalek."

Egypt Hope

Mido is keen to join Zamalek to regain his place in Egypt squad after falling out of favor with manager Hassan Shehata lately.

"I believe a return to Zamalek will give me the chance to earn an Egypt call-up," the 26-year-old said.

"Shehata phoned me and said he considered recalling me to the national team's squad. Playing on a regular basis will help me a lot."

Mido also denied that he had any problems playing alongside Amr Zaki in Zamalek's frontline next season.

Both men formed the attacking partnership of Wigan Athletic in the second half of last term when Mido joined the Latics on loan.

"I asked Mr. Abbas to keep Zaki at Zamalek. I wish to play with him because we can form the most potent attack in the Egyptian League," he added.