American soccer franchise Colorado Rapids have confirmed Danny Cipriani has joined them for training, fuelling speculation over the exiled England fly-half's future in rugby.

Cipriani is due to head to Australia early next month to begin his two-year contract with Super 15 franchise Melbourne Rebels.

The 22-year-old has already trained at Tottenham and QPR this summer and played in pre-season reserve games for both English soccer clubs, leading to suggestions he was angling for a switch.

And his presence at Major League Soccer outfit the Rapids has only heightened doubts over his commitment to rugby.

"Dan has a friendship with members of our coaching staff and is currently training with the club," coach Gary Smith told the club's official website, www.coloradorapids.com.

"He wanted to take advantage of training at altitude and to engage in competitive sessions with our club as we prepare for the last part of our season."

Cipriani explained his appearances at Tottenham and QPR as an attempt to vary his training regime during the off-season.

But reports surfaced he was having second thoughts over his move to Australia and was trying to plot an escape route.

Cipriani explained his decision to join the Rebels as the need to make a fresh start after falling out of favour with England rugby coach Martin Johnson.

He won the last of his seven caps two years ago amid concerns over his attitude at England and Wasps.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP