HE has yet to make his full England debut, but Saints prop Alex Walmsley appears to be the focus of attention from NRL clubs.

Walmsley, who caught the eye with a few block-busting charges against the Affiliated States, has been told he would "thrive" in the NRL.

Super League's top metre maker is understood to be in big demand by Australian clubs who will be casting a close eye on his performance against Lebanon in the World Cup at Sydney Football Stadium on Saturday.

Newcastle, Parramatta, Wests Tigers and St George Illawarra reportedly lead the race to sign Walmsley, who still has a year to run on his Saints contract.

Chris Heighington has been impressed by his new England team-mate's 2017 season and also the impact he has made in training.

Asked if Walmsley would succeed in the NRL, Heighington said: "One hundred per cent. He's big, fast and has got good ball skills.

"He'd really thrive in the NRL to be honest. He's doing a great job in Super League and building some confidence being around the older players. He'd really suit the NRL.

"I get to watch a few of the Super League games and he's been unreal for them. He's been really good at training as well. Unfortunately he came down up a virus but he's good to go this week."