Gareth Thomas has scored a record 34 tries for Wales

"He is being targeted by a big-spending club who are the Manchester United of French rugby," said Warriors benefactor Leighton Samuel.

"We have done everything we possibly can to try to keep him.

"But we can't possibly compete with the salary figures and other gratuities that are being offered."

BBC Wales Sport revealed on Tuesday that Thomas is on the verge of joining the defending European Cup champions.

Wales' record try-scorer has two years left to run on his regional contract, but Toulouse are understood to be prepared to pay the Warriors in excess of �200,000 and offer Thomas a two-year contract worth around �600,000.

If he does leave for France, the move would spark fears many more of Wales' top players will move abroad this summer.

Wales stars in demand

Scarlets and Wales outside-half Stephen Jones is yet to sign a new contract at Stradey Park after receiving offers from both England and France.

And Ospreys winger Shane Williams is also thought to have attracted offers from France.

With money for the regions being cut by the Welsh Rugby Union, it may mean others will be lured away by the larger pay packets on offer outside Wales.