HSV Hamburg lead the race to sign the Egyptian hitman, who has been in superb goal scoring form this season, having 14 goals to his tally.

Hamburg sports director Dietmar Beiersdorfer revealed that Zidan, along with Brazilian forward Carlos Alberto of Fluminense are on top of the club's shortlist this summer.

"We have been targeting Zidan since January, and I will contact Mainz managing director Christian Heidel for a further inquiry," Beiersdorfer was quoted by Hamburg Abendblatt newspaper.

"The same goes with Carlos Alberto, signing them will be very interesting for us, but it would be difficult if we don’t act instantly."

Recent reports also linked Zidan with Bundesliga leaders and expected winners Stuttgart, as it is almost certain that the 25-year-old will be leaving Mainz prior to his 2.5M Euros relegation fee release clause.