Former England captain Chris Robshaw is primed for an American adventure as speculation mounts over a potential move to New York’s Major League Rugby side.

The 33-year-old flanker is calling it quits on his time at Harlequins at the end of the season after a 16-year stint at the Stoop having made 289 appearances, second only to Mike Brown’s 327.

The boyhood Quins fan made his debut in 2005 and guided them to the Amlin Challenge Cup and Premiership title but is now eyeing up a move across the Atlantic to join ex-international stars Mathieu Bastareaud, Drew Mitchell and Ben Foden at Rugby United New York.

In his farewell address to fans Robshaw said: “As a boy, wearing my oversized Harlequins shirt, I could never have imagined I would be fortunate enough to play for the team I admired the most.

“There is so much I will miss about playing for this team, I will always be eternally grateful and proud for having had the chance to stand alongside such extraordinary players. All the while, being supported by the best fans in the world.

“Despite all the intense training hours, and the emotional and physical demands of the job, it never felt like work.

“Putting on the Harlequins shirt will always remain the greatest privilege of my professional career.

“I look forward to the next chapter in my life and will keep you posted. But wherever I end up next, I will do my utmost to make you proud.”

Robshaw captained his country on 43 occasions and made 66 appearances in total that included an historic victory over the All Blacks in 2012 and a Six Nations Grand Slam in 2016.

The flanker has already reportedly met with New York head coach Greg McWilliams to discuss terms and attend practice in Staten Island.

Whilst the financial incentive is not the same as it is in the Premiership, the league is growing and a number of high-profile signings have already been made.

All-Black centre Ma’a Nonu, Springbok powerhouse Tendai Mtawarira and speedster Rene Ranger have all signed on with MLR teams with former Ireland and Lions wing Simon Zebo rumoured to follow suit.

The third season of MLR gets underway this Saturday with all 12 teams in action.