Toronto Wolfpack eye TWO England internationals alongside Sonny Bill Williams

Toronto, who were promoted last month, are close to confirming the signing of the cross-code star on a lucrative two-year contract.

The Daily Telegraph revealed that Brian McDermott, Toronto's head coach, watched the 34-year-old play for the All Blacks in their World Cup semi-final defeat by England in Yokohama, in which Tuilagi played.

They later held face-to-face talks with Williams being offered a deal that includes a minority stake in the Canadian club.

Tuilagi turned down a big-money move to French club Racing 92 this year and signed a contract extension to keep him at Welford Road until June 2021.

Another England international, Ben Te'o, who recently made the move to Toulon, also remains on Toronto's radar.

The Canadian club is believed to have had contact with representatives of both players.