Danny Holla backs out of deal with Melbourne Victory

The Dutch midfielder has backflipped on his decision to head Down Under

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.