Manu Tuilagi is the next high-profile rugby union star to be targeted by Toronto Wolfpack as they prepare for life in Super League with cross-code star Sonny Bill Williams.

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

Telegraph Sport 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.

They later held face-to-face talks and, as reported by Telegraph Sport on Saturday, Williams has been offered a deal that includes a minority stake in the Canadian club.

Now the club want to sign Tuilagi to further bolster their ambition to become a global sporting brand.