Wolfpack turn their sights on Tuilagi

MANU TUILAGI has been offered an eyewatering deal by Super League newcomers Toronto Wolfpack that would see him eventually rejoin Leicester Tigers to finish his career.

The acquisition of All Blacks legend Sonny Bill Williams on a two-year contract worth £5m underlined big-spending Toronto’s ambition, and talks are also underway to sign Tuilagi.

Wolfpack owner David Argyle this week threatened to ‘rip the heart out of English rugby’ by capturing some of union’s finest talent and is prepared to break the bank again for the England centre.

Toronto coach Brian McDermott confirmed: “I know David is talking to Manu’s people.

“I would be interested in a very good rugby player, for sure.”

Tuilagi showed interest in moving to Super League after holding talks with Warrington Wolves earlier this year.

But the Samoa-born star agreed a new deal which ties him to Leicester until June 2021.

Sources close to Tuilagi have confirmed he is interested in the prospect of an immediate code switch and the big-money offer that Toronto have tabled.

The 28-year-old has admitted the 2019 World Cup would “probably” be his last in Rugby Union, saying he would be “too old” for France 2023.

Tigers, who lie bottom of the Premiership after a disastrous start this season, are experiencing a period of

steep decline. Toronto hope to secure Tuilagi’s signature by paying off the remainder of his contract and structuring a deal that would see him return to Welford Road in two or three years’ time.

Significantly, Super League rules exist which allow clubs with sufficient funds to bring in players who have not played professional Rugby League before without it impacting on the salary cap.

Burrell crossed codes earlier this year and Hull FC signed Fijian winger Ratu Naulago along similar lines.

Tuilagi joined Leicester’s academy as a teenager so his bumper salary would not count on Toronto’s wage cap for the first year of his contract.

McDermott was in Japan to watch Williams and Tuilagi play in England’s World Cup semi-final win over New Zealand.

Having sealed Williams’ signature, further negotiations between Tuilagi’s representatives, Leicester and Toronto are expected shortly.

McDermott added: “I don’t think Manu is going to be a centre who outpaces people, but will certainly rely on how robust he is.”