Three Super Rugby clubs consider Benji Marshall

Three Super Rugby franchises have indicated interest in enticing rugby league star Benji Marshall to switch codes with Melbourne Rebels the latest linked to him, according to reports.

The management of the Wests Tigers' playmaker reportedly contacted the Rebels six weeks ago to gauge their interest in the New Zealander.

Reports said the Rebels had insisted the Australian Rugby Union must make the first move before they could consider Marshall, who already has been been linked to the NSW Waratahs and the Auckland Blues.

"Just like other big name league players in the past ... it appears that that's where the discussion is at the moment," Rebels chief executive Rob Clarke said. "I've obviously said that, depending on the outcome of those discussions, then the Rebels would be open-minded."

Blues coach John Kirwan said he had spoken to Marshall about playing rugby in New Zealand.

"It didn't get down to whether we were a part of his mix. What I got out of the conversation was he was genuinely thinking about changes in his life."