Cape Town - Harlequins flyhalf Marcus Smith is set to become the world's best paid teenage player.

According to The Times website, the 18-year-old has agreed to a deal through to mid-2022 that is expected to start at £230 000 (R3.9 million) a year - before bonuses.

Smith will see out the rest of this season on an academy contract worth less than £30 000 (R500 000) a year.

Smith, who was born in the Philippines, last year became the second youngest debutant in the Premiership at 18 years and 200 days.

England coach Eddie Jones included him in his 33-man training squad for the 2017 end-of-year Tests as an 'apprentice' player.

A thrilled director of rugby John Kingston commented: “I’m delighted to have secured Marcus’ long-term future at Harlequins.

“Marcus is an intelligent and humble young lad who is very focused on his rugby. He has the talent and abilities to take this Quins side forward onto the next stage of its development.  

“He is the type of player and person that perfectly embodies the Harlequins spirit and culture we are building at The Stoop.”

Smith said: “I am extremely proud to share the news of my contract extension with Harlequins.

“Harlequins is a fantastic club and they have looked after me extremely well since I joined three years ago. The club is incredibly ambitious and combined with John Kingston’s long-term vision, it made the decision much easier knowing the faith and guidance he has shown me.”

“As a player you want to be playing in the big games and hopefully if I can keep improving I will be involved in more and more of them and help the club progress both domestically and in Europe.”