ARU makes Gasnier formal offer

The Australian Rugby Union (ARU) has offered St George Illawarra centre Mark Gasnier a formal playing contract to switch from rugby league at the end of the NRL season.

The proposed deal would enable Gasnier to play for New South Wales in the Super 14.

"We didn't go out looking for Mark Gasnier, he came to us. We met with him on a number of occasions and we have now made him a formal offer," ARU chief executive Gary Flowers said in a statement.

"He is a world-class rugby league player, one of the best in the world in his position, and (Wallabies coach) John Connolly and our high performance unit feel he has the potential to make a big impact in the game."

Mr Flowers said Gasnier had been made a competitive offer which was nowhere near the $750,000 that had been reported in the media.

"We have made him an offer that is commensurate with his abilities and standing as a professional footballer, but one that is affordable, performance-based and in line with contracts offered to players of a similar standard," he said.

"If he decides he wants a new challenge in an international game with the potential to play his way into a rugby World Cup, that's great.

"However, if he chooses to stick with rugby league, we will be comfortable in the knowledge that we have offered him the best possible opportunity to cross over into the 15-man game."

-REUTERS