He is an Australian that has been capped 54 times by his country, he has played for some of the biggest clubs in the world in Leeds United and Liverpool FC, he holds a UEFA Champions League winner’s medal, he is possibly the greatest ever soccer player from Australia - he is Harry Kewell.

After three seasons with Turkish giants Galatasaray, Kewell is looking for a new club to ply his trade at. At 32 years of age the Socceroo’s next club may very well be his last, so it comes as no surprise that there has been a high level of drama surrounding his decision as to which club he joins next.

Return to Australia

There were high hopes that Kewell might return to Australia and delight fans all around the nation with his performances, as he enters the twilight of his career. But for reasons well documented in the Australian press, a deal could not be reached to bring Harry home.

Critics of Kewell say that he was selfish, that he demanded far too much money and should have acted more charitably in his attempt to return home. Kewell’s supporters meanwhile argue that the FFA should have tried harder to secure the services of the Australian great, his financial benefits were after all to be linked to the success of football in Australia.

Either way, sadly for A-League fans, it is certain Kewell will not be returning to Australia, for the upcoming season at least.

Fulham

Reports have strongly suggested that new Fulham manager Martin Jol is very interested in bringing Kewell back to England. Despite playing in Turkey for three years, Kewell’s family remained in England throughout his playing time there. A move back to the English Premier League therefore may be the most suitable for Kewell.

Given that Kewell is a free agent, he represents relatively little risk to major European clubs in contrast to the A-League clubs. Where the A-League sides would have been investing a substantial sum in bringing the player home, for Fulham, Kewell’s wage demands would be acceptable.

Queens Park Rangers

It has been widely reported that both Lucas Neill and Kewell rejected offers from the newly promoted English Premier League side Queens Park Rangers in early June. At the time Kewell was more interested in trying to make a return home to Australia a possibility.

Given that the option to return home has since collapsed, it is possible that QPR may offer Kewell a contract once again. The newly promoted side are desperate to bring in several players with Premier League experience, with only three new signings so far this summer.

QPR would offer Kewell far less stability than Fulham, with the Rangers expected to be battling relegation next term. But the interest from QPR is concrete, and it would be no surprise to see the Socceroo in blue and white next season.

Outside of England

Kewell has been cryptic on where he may move since the return to Australia was ruled out. TheSunday Morning Herald reported that he has received other offers from clubs outside of England, and that he is giving them very serious consideration.

Given family circumstances, Kewell’s preference is to return to England, but monetary offers may be far more substantial outside of the UK. The United Arab Emirates has been investing large sums of money to lure star footballers away from Europe, with 2006 winning FIFA World Cup Italian captain Fabio Cannavaro recently bringing an end to his short stint there because of injury.

Unfortunately for us here in Australia, the only certainty in Kewell’s move so far is that he will not be returning to Australia, with a move back to England the next best bet.

Have an opinion on Kewell’s failed return to Australia? Where do you think the Australian star will play this season? SoccerAnchor.com wants to know what YOU think, so leave a comment below…