REPUBLIC OF IRELAND striker David Connolly is set for a move to French First Division side Strasbourg. The 20 year old Watford player will fly out to France tomorrow to meet club officials and discuss personal terms.

Connolly, who scored a hat trick in last month's 5-0 thumping of Liechtenstein, has been advised by Ireland manager Mick McCarthy to jump at the offer.

"There is a sound concrete offer on the table from Strasbourg and I think it is very exciting when you consider the standard of French football," Connolly said.

"Strasbourg are a very good club and I know they finished the season quite well. But the most important thing for me is that it is good experience, not one person I know has said anything against it."

Connolly's contract at Watford has just run out, meaning he can look forward to a hefty signing on fee under the Bosman ruling.

Connolly has also been the subject of interest from Italy and Spain and has made no secret of his wish to leave the Nationwide Second Division.