The manager has previously stressed that the Latics were optimistic about securing the Egyptian's long-term services. He has made these latest declarations despite Zaki's impressive start in the Barclays Premier League attracting the attention of other clubs.

Bruce secured a season-long loan for Zaki from Egyptian side El Zamalek and the 25-year-old immediately made an impact at the JJB Stadium.

Zaki has scored five league goals since joining Wigan and also netted in their Carling Cup win over Notts County in August.

But Bruce is hopeful that a deal can be done to keep the Egyptian at Wigan and see him continue to make an impact in the Barclays Premier League.

more expensive

"There is an agreement in principle with his club," Bruce said. "There is a lot of the season to go, so there is no rush.

"Zaki is ours at the moment, so let's enjoy it while we can. We will try to set up a deal when the time is right.

"We're in pole position to sign the lad because he's here at the moment.

"It's a double-edged sword - the better he does here, the more expensive he will be."

Bruce also revealed that he did not expect Zaki to adapt to Barclays Premier League life so quickly, but is in no doubt that he will continue to improve.

"I've got to say Zaki has started better than we thought he would," added Bruce. "We brought him here because we thought he could make an impact and we're delighted because he's certainly done that.

"There's a long way to go yet, a long winter ahead. Hopefully he'll continue how he has been doing."