Leading clubs from the UAE and beyond are looking to take advantage of Arabian Gulf Cup champions Al Nasr’s failure to start talks to extend inspirational captain Brett Holman’s imminently expiring deal.
Holman, 30, has proven a roaring success with the Blue Wave since inking a two-year contract when joining as a free agent in June 2013 after leaving Aston Villa. A long trophy drought has been ended in style, the GCC Club Cup arriving in May and the AGC following last Friday with a 4-1 victory against Sharjah.
The 63-times capped former Australia international has performed a pivotal role in their upturn, but no talks have taken place to agree a renewal. With the attacking midfielder inside the final six months and able to negotiate a free summer transfer, his situation has alerted outfits from the UAE, Qatar and China.
Despite acknowledging the growing interest in his services, Holman has insisted he is focusing on continuing Nasr’s strong start to the season.
He said: “There is too much football to think about to worry about contracts right now. I am very happy at Al Nasr, the fans are fantastic and we are winning trophies.
“My family is settled and enjoying life in the UAE. Of course, I am aware of interest from other clubs but all that will take care of itself in due course.”
No move is expected during the winter transfer window which ends on February 12, though the prospect has not been completely ruled out.
Holman was linked to Abu Dhabi giants Al Jazira last summer, with a number of Nasr’s rivals retaining a desire to secure his services. His standing has only grown this season after taking on the armband when veteran midfielder Leo Lima was loaned to Sharjah.
“My family is settled and enjoying life in the UAE. I'm aware of interest from other clubs but that'll take care of itself in due course.”
A strong first half of the campaign for club and player has seen Holman score four goals in 13 Arabian Gulf League appearances ahead of Wednesday night’s resumption against Bani Yas.
This form sees the fifth-placed Blue Wave as the main beneficiaries of Holman’s decision to end his international career last April, with the player declaring he is “as fit as I have ever been”.
He said: “Not playing international football takes a little pressure off, but I feel I’ve got a lot of football left in me.
“I’ve looked after myself pretty well. I am as fit as I have ever been and want to play every game.”
