Mark Gasnier (File)

Sydney - New Australian Super 15 outfit Melbourne Rebels have approached former rugby league international centre Mark Gasnier about playing for them next year, coach Rod Macqueen said on Monday.

Macqueen said he met Gasnier last week to discuss a move from Paris to play for the new franchise.

Gasnier's contract at French club Stade Francais is due to expire in June with the 28-year-old back reportedly looking for a return to Australia to qualify for selection for the 2011 World Cup.

Macqueen said Gasnier was the type of person and player the Rebels wanted on their playing roster.

"We had a good meeting and I think he's certainly the sort of player that would be good for Melbourne," he said.

"He's obviously got a lot of things to think about because he's got some offers and contracts in France and he's got to weigh that up against coming out here and having a go at making the Wallabies squad."

Macqueen said Gasnier would hold further talks with the Australian Rugby Union, who may also contract the former St George Illawarra Dragons skipper and bolster his playing fee.

"It's way too early to draw any conclusions but we're going to explore a range of opportunities and once we have we'll sit down and figure a direction," Gasnier's manager George Mimis said.

Mimis said Gasnier didn't meet any other Australian Super rugby franchises during his short visit back to Australia for his wedding.

The Rebels will be Australia's fifth team, alongside the New South Wales Waratahs, Queensland Reds, Western Force and ACT Brumbies, in the southern hemisphere's elite provincial competition from 2011.

South Africa, New Zealand and Australia Rugby (SANZAR) are moving to expand their current Super 14, formerly Super 12, competition in a bid to boost popularity.