Versatile All Blacks prop Ben Franks is tipped to join British club London Irish after this year's World Cup.

Reports in the British media have linked the 30-year-old to a shift north as part of what is expected to be an exodus of ageing All Blacks stars after their attempt to defend the World Cup in England in September and October.

Heading north: All Blacks prop Ben Franks has been linked with a move to London Irish after the World Cup. Credit:Getty Images

Props are in demand in England. Former All Black John Afoa is on a $1m-a-season deal with Gloucester, and Franks' ability to play on both sides of the scrum increases his value.

Franks has played 41 Tests for the All Blacks since 2008, although 35 of those have been off the bench, another sign of the Hurricanes front-rower's value in covering the demanding tighthead and loosehead positions.