The Australian Rugby Union (ARU) says star flyhalf Matt Giteau has not approached them for a temporary release from his contract.

A report in French newspaper Midi Olympique said Giteau was keen on pursuing a short-term release to play in France, similar to the deal All Black Dan Carter struck with the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) to sign with Perpignan.

"After the tour, I am going to discuss with the federation to see if it will authorise me to get some experience in France, like what the NZRU did with Carter," Giteau was quoted in the report.

"It would be fantastic. I adore your country, your way of life, your food, the croissants at breakfast."

The report went on to say Giteau didn't have a date set for any possible switch but would like to make the move "before the next World Cup".

But an ARU spokesman said they had not received any request from Giteau for such a deal.

"Matt is under contract with the ARU until 2011 and for him to play overseas he would need a clearance from the ARU," the spokesman said.

The ARU refused to comment on whether Giteau would be granted the release should he formally request one.

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