The French giants have reportedly drawn up a three-year contract which could see Thomas earn around £750,000.

And businessman Leighton Samuel, benefactor of the Celtic Warriors team where Wales full-back Thomas currently plays his rugby, admits there is little he can do.

Gareth is under contract until May 31, 2006, and is one of the highest-paid rugby players in Wales, said Samuel.

But he is being targeted by a big-spending club who are the Manchester United of French rugby.

We have done everything we possibly can to try to keep him, but we cant possibly compete with the salary figures and other gratuities that are being offered, never in a million years, Samuel told the Western Mail.

Thomas, capped 77 times, eclipsed Ieuan Evans record when he claimed his 34th Test touchdown during Wales RBS 6 Nations Championship victory over Italy last month.

And he is a strong candidate to tour New Zealand with Sir Clive Woodwards Lions next year.

One former Wales fly-half definitely on the move is Arwel Thomas, who has a agreed a one-year deal with Celtic Warriors and will join them from French outfit Pau.