A number of European clubs have been keeping their eye on Town skipper Matt Holland at the World Cup. Holland has impressed with his performances in the Far East and has already been linked with a number of Premiership sides.

Italian club Torino are reported to have been impressed with Holland's goalscoring performance against Cameroon, while Udinese and last season's Serie A surprise package Chievo have also had scouts at Ireland's games.

In addition to the Italian clubs, Spanish side Real Betis, one of Finidi George's former employers, have also been watching the Town captain.

Holland moving abroad, however, looks less likely than a switch back to the Premiership. The former Bournemouth midfielder said on Friday that he is currently keeping his mind on the World Cup and that he would consider what to do about next season once Ireland were eliminated.

Virtually half the Premiership have been linked with summer moves for Holland; Everton, Southampton, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Charlton, Middlesbrough, Spurs and Leeds have all been reported to have shown an interest.

George Burley has said that he is keen to hold on to his skipper but if an offer came in which matched Town's valuation then it would be seriously considered. The Blues are thought to consider the £5 million valuation often quoted in the press well below Holland's true worth.

If Holland does leave Portman Road Bournemouth are entitled to 25% of the fee. The midfielder spent two years at Dean Court before joining Town for £800,000 in the summer of 1997 after protracted negotiations.

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