England rugby union officials have denied approaching South Sydney star Sam Burgess, and say it would be up to him if he wanted to switch codes before next year's World Cup.

Burgess is understood to have discussed the idea of returning home to play in the Rugby World Cup while in England for the rugby league version of the event late last year and he has been linked to Bath.

Hot property: Rabbitohs star Sam Burgess reportedly wants to play in a second World Cup for England, this time in rugby in 2015. Credit:Michael Steele

However, Fairfax Media understands that Burgess is yet to receive any offer and neither he, his management, the RFU or Bath have approached the Rabbitohs about a release.

With Burgess contracted for a further three years, Souths could demand a transfer fee of more than $1 million to release him.