Sonny Bill tipped to stay in union

Sonny Bill Williiams has knocked back a return to the NRL next year and will stay in rugby union, according to reports.

Williams is off-contract with Kiwi Super Rugby side the Chiefs at the end of 2016 and the Roosters are keen to lure him back to rugby league. The forward won the NRL grand final with the Roosters in 2013.

But the 30-year old is now expected to spurn their offer with big-money offers on the table for him from French rugby union.

Williams previously played for French club Toulon and will represent New Zealand in rugby sevens at the upcoming Rio Olympics.