The 29-year-old, who plays in the Egyptian Premier League for Zamalek, is an international team-mate of Baggies defender Ahmed Hegazi and is a player tracked by the Baggies for some time.

Former boss Tony Pulis was keen on Gabr last summer before bringing in Hegazi, who has now signed permanently after initially joining on loan.

It is understood any deal for Gabr this month would be similarly structured, with the option of a permanent move in the summer.

Reports in Egypt have claimed Zamalek are willing to sell but are holding out for a £750,000 loan fee.

So long as the future of skipper Jonny Evans remains unresolved, boss Alan Pardew will be limited to one or two loan moves in the January window and a move for Gabr would represent good value.

Both Arsenal and Manchester City have made enquiries concerning Evans but no bids for the 30-year-old have yet been received.