After weeks of trying to force a move away from Bundesliga Champions Dortmund, Egypt striker Mohamed Zidan joined Mainz on the last day of the January transfer window.

The 30-year-old striker signed a six-month loan contract with Bundesliga side Mainz until June 2012, with an option for a permanent move until June 2014, while the financial agreement between the two clubs has not been disclosed.

"I am happy the transfer worked out at the last moment. I wanted to get back to Mainz; I never forgot the great time I had with the club and the fans," Zidan was quoted as saying on Mainz’s official website.

The former Werder Bremen player hit stardom with Mainz scoring 22 goals in 41 games over two spells in 2005/2006 and 2006/2007, before moving to Hamburg and then following his mentor Jurgen Klopp at Dortmund.

"I’ve had fantastic years with Dortmund, but I had to look for myself and seek a new challenge. I hope I can help the team progress," the gifted Pharaohs' forward added.

Zidan was a regular starter but picked up a serious knee injury and fell out of favour since recovering in 2010. He has repeatedly requested more time to play would it be at the Westfalenstadion or elsewhere to regain his renowned form.

"Mohamed Zidan fits exactly in our requirements. He wanted us, knows the Bundesliga and Mainz as well. Zidan is fully fit and underwent a strong preparation with Dortmund, therefore he won’t need a long time to get in action," coach Christian Heidel told the club’s website.

"He has proven his qualities throughout his career. We’ve always kept our good memories with him and never lost contact with him. His presence will increase the quality of our squad," the coach added.

Mainz are 12th of the 18-team Bundesliga table with 21 points after 19 games. They will travel to play title-contenders Schalke next Saturday but Zidan isn’t likely to feature in this game.

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