Northampton Saints director of rugby Jim Mallinder has revealed that he expects forward Samu Manoa to leave the club at the end of the season.
The USA international is understood to be in talks with a number of French sides over a possible move.
While admitting that players are likely to receive better pay in France, Mallinder is not sure whether a switch to the Top 14 would be good for Manoa.
"It's part of life. I've known for a long time that our top players have been looked at," he told BBC Sport. "We've got quality players here, we won the Premiership last season and it comes as no surprise that other clubs are interested in recruiting our best players.
"No doubt we will lose one or two players. French sides have got massive money, we can't compete and we have to stick to our salary cap. Is the grass always greener? You'd have to ask them. Certainly you'll get more money, but whether it's the best choice for their lifestyle or rugby, who knows?"
Manoa joined Northampton in 2011 following a spell playing amateur rugby in the USA.
Jack Prescott
