'Not our choice': Trent Robinson reacts as Joey Manu weighs up quitting French rugby deal

Roosters coach Trent Robinson has reacted to news Joseph Manu is considering asking for a release from his contract with French rugby club on compassionate grounds.

According to The Sydney Morning Herald, the two-time NRL premiership winner is weighing up the move, which would see him head to France in July.

Manu signed a one-year deal with the an option for a second season, but is now looking at moving back to either Sydney or New Zealand due to family reasons.

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It could see the 28-year-old link up with a Super Rugby club if he wishes to continue in the 15-man code and pursue his dream of playing for the All Blacks.

However, if he requests and secures the release from Racing 92 before the end of June, it could place Manu in the frame for an NRL cameo in the back-half of the year.

Manu signed his contract with the club prior to coach Stuart Lancaster's departure.

It's unclear if Manu wants to return to Sydney or to New Zealand, but one place he won't be this season is at Bondi.

Speaking to media on Thursday afternoon, Robinson shut down suggestions that Manu could be back in the red, white and blue jersey.

"I didn't know about it and when I heard about it, I was interesting in why and how Joey is and what the reason was for it," the coach said.  

"That's not our choice. Joey gets to make his choice, he doesn't owe us anything.

"We've spent a lot of time together and there's obviously a professional relationship and also a care for his family. That's his choice and no one is tied to anything. 

"If he's asked for a release, he would have a plan on what he wants to do and that's not gonna be us at the moment."

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Warriors chief executive Cameron George said he was unaware of Manu's situation, but wouldn't rule out making a play if he became available.

"The Warriors have had no discussions in respect to Joey Manu's future," he said.

"But of course if Joey Manu was to become available we would definitely sit down with his management. To this date, we've had none whatsoever."

Manu has expressed willingness to play fullback and was unable to cement that position at the Roosters with captain James Tedesco ahead of him.

In addition to having the money, the Warriors could also offer the best opportunity for Manu to play in the No.1 jersey, with Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad linked to Super League.