"I told the board that I want to play for another club in the second half of the season," Abdul-Monsef told FilGoal.com on Thursday.

"I need to play regularly in order to regain my place in Egypt’s squad. I should leave Zamalek in the January transfer window."

Abdul-Monsef replaced Abdul-Wahed Al-Sayed's as Zamalek's first-choice keeper in the final stages of last season after the latter sustained a serious injury.

But Al-Sayed, who was the only Zamalek player to earn plaudits this season, reclaimed his place between the sticks following his recovery in August 2008.

Abdul-Monsef's lack of playing time cost him his place in Egypt's squad.

"I asked Zamalek to let me join Ismaili or Telecom Egypt on loan. Both clubs expressed interest in signing me in January," the 31-year-old keeper added.

Although Ismaili recently announced that they signed Iraqi keeper Nour Sabri, they might be forced to call off the deal because they do not have vacant places for more foreigners in their squad.

The Dervishes are looking to replace keeper Mohamed Sobhi, who was heavily criticized for committing some dreadful errors this season.

Telecom have seen a bid for Abdul-Monsef turned down by Zamalek lately.