Leicester have made moves to sign the New Zealand centre Luke McAlister, according to the Auckland Blues player's father and agent.

The former Manawatu coach Charlie McAlister claims Leicester opened talks during the All Blacks' European tour last month. McAlister Sr told The Herald On Sunday: "I met some people from Leicester. It was an informal chat and they are just one of a few big clubs that have expressed an interest."

McAlister recently signed a one-year extension to his New Zealand Rugby Union and North Harbour provincial contract. He spent part of his childhood in Manchester when his father played professional rugby league for Oldham and Salford.