The agent of Amr Zaki says the Egypt striker could still sign permanently with Wigan Athletic.

Latics boss Steve Bruce revealed Zaki's latest disappearance is the fourth time he has gone AWOL in his season-long loan spell at the JJB Stadium, but agent Nader Shawky remains confident a deal can be struck for the 26-year-old.

"I had a phone conversation with Bruce on Friday morning and am sure they still need to strike a permanent deal with Zaki," Shawky told superkoora.com.

"I am working with my partner in the UK to solve the problem and am sure we will be met in the midway.

"Zaki's medical reports have been sent to Wigan. Obviously, Steve is angry at Zaki's absence - they [Wigan] wanted him to show on time, which he is absolutely right.

"Bruce told me they need to get into the European arena and I am sure of Zaki's future with the Latics."