Chris Goulding's British passport enables him to play in any European Union country. Source: Robert Prezioso / Getty Images
MELBOURNE Tigers has a fight on its hands to hold on to MVP Chris Goulding, with the British passport-holder expected to field strong offers to play in Europe next season.
The NBL's leading scorer is in the first of a two-year deal, although it is understood a get-out clause does exist in the event of overseas offers.
Although the Tigers are also protected with the club expected to be well compensated in the event of Goulding being lured abroad.
"I've got a British passport, so obviously it is an option (playing in Europe one day)," Goulding said.
"But that's something I will have to think about when it comes up and if it comes up sometime down the track.
"It could be in my future, but right now I am just thinking about finishing this season strongly."
Goulding's stock has risen dramatically this season and it is believed European clubs have taken notice.
Chris Goulding looks for an open teammate against the New Zealand Breakers. Source: Getty Images
His British passport - as a result of his father being English - makes him a very attractive target.
He is essentially a free hit bonus signing for European clubs as he does not fall under import status.
But the 25-year-old said he remained solely focused on Melbourne's push for a playoff spot this season.
"I've had a few people ask me just about it (my future) just from around the club and basketball fans around Melbourne and Australia," Goulding said.
"But I try to keep it out of my mind because we're in the middle of a season.
"We set out some specific goals at the start of the year so thinking about others things won't help that."
Tigers coach Chris Anstey acknowledged it would be difficult to retain Goulding and said he would not stand in the star's way.
"While we always want to keep the best players, I'd be hypocritical not to support any decision Chris makes in the future in regards to playing overseas," Anstey said.
Chris Goulding is fouled by Kevin White of the Sydney Kings. Source: News Limited
"I did the same myself and I know how I grew and developed from it, so a lot of the things we do with Chris centres around going to the next step and that next level.
"It is why I am often harder on him than anyone else."
Anstey said Goulding's development this season had helped both the team and his own future prospects.
"He's been really good and he's getting better in other areas, which I think other people haven't seen yet," Anstey said.
"That is the sort of thing that will help him help us win finals, I hope, and help him make the most of any next step.
"I do know that If we're good to Chris and he does decide to move on at any stage, I would hope he wouldn't even consider going anywhere else other than coming back to us."
The Tigers - who on Monday helped spread some Christmas cheer with a visit to the Royal Children's Hospital - meet Wollongong at The Cage on Friday night.
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