The Magpies have reportedly offered to pay £6 million in return for the Egyptian ace, who plays for the Latics on loan from Zamalek.

Newcastle's bid was made in the wake of Steve Bruce's statements that Zaki is unlikely to earn a permanent deal at the JJB Stadium.

Head coach Bruce was cross with the muscular marksman as he didn't report from international duty after Egypt's 1-1 draw with Zambia in the 2010 World Cup qualifiers final phase.

Early this season, former England superstar Alan Shearer, who has been recently appointed as Newcastle boss, had heaped praise on the 26-year-old international.

The Premiership club are also interested in Zaki's compatriots Mohamed Shawky and Ahmed Al-Muhammadi, who ply their trade at Middlesbrough and ENPPI respectively.

Al-Muhammadi was targeted by Blackburn Rovers in January, but no agreement was reached.