Queensland Reds and Japan fullback Ayumu Goromaru has reportedly overtaken All Blacks great Dan Carter as the highest-paid rugby player in the world.

Goromaru shot to fame during last year's World Cup and became a Japanese cult hero for spearheading the Brave Blossoms' incredible run at the tournament, which included a shock win over South Africa.

The 29-year-old will play Super Rugby for the Reds this season and there is talk he will then move to French glamour club Toulon, according to French TV station Canal Plus.

Goromaru will overtake Dan Carter at the top of the earner's list. Carter's three-year deal with Racing 92 is said to be worth $3 million a season.