Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has reportedly been sounded out to succeed England's Stuart Lancaster.

A number of names have been linked with the England top job after the host nation bowed out of the World Cup before the knockout stage, with many expecting Lancaster to be removed from his post.

England's World Cup review is underway, with a recommendation to the governing body's board expected to be made next week, but reports in Australia suggest that RFU president Jason Leonard has already expressed an interest in acquiring Cheika's service.

Cheika was recently named World Rugby Coach of the Year after guiding the Wallabies to the Rugby Championship title and the World Cup final, but he is contracted to the Australian Rugby Union until the end of 2017.

If England are set to part ways with Lancaster, it's understandable that there will be some urgency to pin down a suitable replacement before preparations begin for the 2016 Six Nations.

Photo: BackpagePix