"I have signed a three-year-deal with Zamalek, the club will contact Rizespor in a few days in order to finalize the deal financially," the 31-year-old told FilGoal.com.

The move came as no surprise as the Egypt international was poised to a return to his previous club after agreeing terms a month ago.

"I have one year remaining in my contract with Rize, but the club officials respected my willingness to leave and rejoin Zamalek," Al-Tabie added.

Al-Tabie's comments come one day after his Egyptian teammate Ibrahim Saied has confirmed his Rize exit as well, despite the team's assurance of a place in the top flight next season.

"I don’t know why some Egyptian reports kept saying that Rize were officially relegated and that I wanted to join Zamalek for this reason.

"I was very happy that Saied and I helped the club stay in the first division despite our critical situation on the final day, it is proof that we had a successful campaign."

Rize were fortunate to stay in the Turkish Super Lig after they drew 1-1 at bottom club Sakaryaspor, but they were helped by Antalyaspor's 3-1 home defeat to Genclerbirligi.