Saudi side Al Hilal snapped up the defender at the beginning of the year in a controversial move which saw Degenek swap UEFA Champions League with Red Star Belgrade for the Saudi Pro League.

But now just six months later, Degenek is returning to Red Star in time for their new Champions League campaign.

The 25 cap Socceroo is understood to have been loaned back to his old club by Al Hilal for the season with an option to make the move permanent.

Degenek took to Twitter to thank the Saudi side and its fans for their support since he made the move in January.

"Thank you to everyone at @Alhilal_FC who made me feel like I was part of the biggest family in Asia," he tweeted today.

"I appreciate the affection and love I received from the fans for the 6 months. I hope to meet again with you guys in the future. For now it’s a goodbye and I wish you all the best⚽️"