Lote Tuqiri has also been linked with Bayonne and Stade Francais

Ospreys coach Sean Holley says rumoured transfer target Lote Tuqiri's poor disciplinary record would not deter them from pursuing such a player.

"We've got a few [players who are hard to handle], haven't we," said Holley.

"It's on-field quality that matters. If quality players are available, we can afford them and they fit into our set-up, I'm sure we'll explore that.

"I don't think there's more in it at the moment. We've stated our Heineken Cup squad and are happy with [it]."

Widespread media reports have linked 67-cap Australia three-quarter Tuqiri to the Liberty Stadium.

Sometimes the best players come with an edge Former Wales captain Jonathan Davies

The 30-year-old could replace Gavin Henson - whose rugby future remains a mystery - in the Ospreys squad, while the Welsh region's Lions three-quarter Tommy Bowe has been linked with a return to Ireland next season.

Former Wales captain Jonathan Davies says Tuqiri would bring a lot to the Welsh region.

"It all depends on what happens to Henson, but Tuqiri's a quality player," Davies told the BBC Wales' Scrum V rugby programme.

Former Fiji rugby league captain Tuqiri has a troubled disciplinary record and had his Wallabies contract terminated in July, but Davies says this should not deter the Ospreys.

"You just have to manage them," said Davies. "Sometimes the best players come with an edge."

Former Wales number eight Phil Davies added: "He's a fantastic player who scores tries. He's world class and puts bums on seats."

606: DEBATE Should the Ospreys move for Tuqiri?

Tuqiri made his name in the NRL with the Brisbane Broncos and Australia before switching to union with the NSW Waratahs in 2002.

He scored a try in the 2003 World Cup final against England and is known as one of the most effective three-quarters in world rugby.

Ospreys director of rugby Scott Johnson worked with the player when he left Wales to join the Wallabies coaching set-up in 2006.

Since Tuqiri's Australia contract was cancelled he has been playing for lowly Sydney club West Harbour.

Bayonne and Stade Francais have also been linked with the world star.

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