CAIRO: Amr Zaki said he was unsure whether he would stay at Wigan Athletic beyond the end of the season as he believes Zamalek s “unrealistic valuation – reportedly ?12 million – of him could hamper any talks.
Zamalek slapped a hefty price tag on me, the Egypt striker, who prepares to play with the Pharaohs in Sunday s World Cup qualifier against Zambia, told reporters on Wednesday.
Zaki joined Wigan from Cairo giants Zamalek on a season-long loan last summer.
He impressed in the Premiership first half, scoring 10 goals to become the Latics top scorer.
The 25-year-old suffered a dip in form afterwards, with his last goal being in December against Bolton Wanderers, but he still managed to convince Wigan coach Steve Bruce that he was good enough to stay at the JJB Stadium.
But an agreement over a permanent deal is far from being finalized.
I don t know yet where I will play next season. But honestly, I can t return to the Egyptian league, Zaki added.
Reports said Zamalek demanded ? 12 million to sell the former ENPPI and Mansoura man.
Zamalek should expect to face a fierce battle with Zaki if they decide to bring him back to Cairo.
Known as being relentless on and off the pitch, the combative frontman overcame countless obstacles to move to Wigan on loan last summer.
Zamalek s then chairman Mamdouh Abbas apparently wanted to keep hold of him but Zaki eventually fulfilled his dream of playing abroad.
And having made a notable impact in the elite Premiership, Zaki would do his best to make sure he continues his adventure there.
Why would I leave the strongest league competition in the world? he commented.
