Gasnier is expected to remain in Australia

Wigan, who released Jamie Ainscough earlier this season, are keen to sign a quality centre but say their spending is restricted by the salary cap.

Reports in Australia had suggested the Warriors were prepared to pay around �200,000 a year for Gasnier who made his Test debut as a teenager against Papua New Guinea in 2001.

But Warriors chairman Maurice Lindsay issued a statement saying the club would not be pursuing Gasnier, who is now expected to re-sign for St George Illawarra.

"There have been reports both in this country and Australia suggesting that we were about to pay a king's ransom.

I'm pleased Martin has re-signed for us Wigan coach Stuart Raper

"In reality, any interest we have shown has been within salary cap restrictions and considerably less than the outrageous sums stated by certain people.

"Perhaps suggesting that Wigan were prepared to pay a high sum helped to improve negotiations in Australia. We will not be part of that game."

Meanwhile, Wigan coach has welcomed the club securing the services of 21-year-old Aspinwall after the Wigan-born centre had been linked with a move to Warrington.

"I'm pleased Martin has re-signed for us," said coach Stuart Raper. "It's reward for all his efforts. He has made good progress and there is a lot more to come."

But Wigan will be without winger Brett Dallas who is flying home to Australia to be beside his critically-ill mother.

He has only recently returned to the team after overcoming a series of hamstring injuries but rediscovered his form with five tries in the last two matches.

"It's disappointing for Brett because he has only just got back," said Raper.

"The welfare of his family is very important. His mother is in intensive care and he will be away for a week or two."