Rugby: Code switch for Wallaby ace?

Quade Cooper. Photo / Getty Images

Quade Cooper is reportedly considering a code switch to the National Rugby League (NRL), a move that would further jeopardise the Wallabies' bid to secure an unprecedented third World Cup title in New Zealand next year.

Cooper's management has been in discussions with the Parramatta Eels despite the Tokoroa-born Queensland first five-eighth verbally agreeing to a two-year contract extension with the Reds in June.

The 22-year-old is apparently unhappy with the amount the Australian Rugby Union (ARU) is prepared to pay to top up his provincial contract.

A revelation during this year's Super 14, Cooper's combination with Queensland halfback Will Genia is a key component of Australian coach Robbie Deans' strategy to regain the Webb Ellis Trophy in Auckland next October.

The Daily Telegraph newspaper today revealed that Cooper's manager Richard Colreavy flew to Sydney last week to sound out the Eels, who are in the market for a five-eighth.

Cooper was tightlipped when contacted last night but revealed he has thought about playing in the NRL.

"I can't say too much," said Cooper, who rejoins the Wallabies camp next Tuesday after serving a two-match suspension that ruled him out of the Bledisloe Cup losses to the All Blacks in Melbourne and Christchurch.

"I enjoy watching the NRL and wouldn't rule it out. Right now, I'm playing rugby, that's my focus," he told the Daily Telegraph.

"I don't know what's going on there (negotiations with the Eels)."

Asked whether the prospect of becoming a dual international was enticing, Cooper said: "Any footballer who has the opportunity to do it would think about it."

He said his main priority was the Wallabies' back-to-back Tri-Nations tests in South Africa, where Australia need to win to avoid finishing a distant third.

Parramatta are looking to bolster their playmaking resources after coach Daniel Anderson yesterday dropped Daniel Mortimer, who has struggled to replicate the form he showed in his rookie season last year.

The Eels have so far been unsuccessful in signing a senior mentor for Mortimer, with Trent Barrett, Brett Kimmorley, Cooper Cronk, Matt Orford and Brent Sherwin all resisting advances.

- NZPA