Melbourne Victory's bid to sign defensive midfielder Danny Holla has fallen through after the Dutchman admitted to abandoning contract discussions with the A-League club.
The 30-year-old was understood to have verbally agreed a one-year contract at Victory, with the option to extend at its conclusion, according to press in the Netherlands.
But an unknown last-minute hitch has scuppered the deal and Victory coach Kevin Muscat will be forced to look elsewhere to bolster his squad.
"In the end, I made the choice not to [sign for Melbourne Victory], but I'm not disappointed, but it's a shame, of course, it just could not be that way", Holla told Voetbal International.
It's the latest blow for A-League champions Victory, who were slammed by departing star Leroy George and have also lost experienced players Besart Berisha, Rhys Williams and James Donachie.
The club has been linked to a swag of possible marquee options, including Premier League veteran Peter Crouch and USA striker Jozy Altidore.
