The Scotland winger's contract runs out at the end of the season and Mallinder is still hopeful of holding on to the powerful 28-year-old. But as well as Edinburgh and the Scotland Rugby Union trying to tempt him back over the border, big money is now being offered to Lamont in France, believed to be Stade Francais and Toulon.

It could see Lamont join the French exodus and Mallinder admits he can't compete with the Euros being offered across the channel, by clubs with millionaire backers and no salary cap.

Mallinder said: "We will do our best to keep Sean as we have said before. If values get too high and other clubs come in and we can't compete then you have got to be prepared to lose certain players.

"I have read the speculation that French clubs are interested in Sean and his brother (Rory). If someone comes in and offers silly money that we can't compete with then so be it. We have got a budget we have got to stick to."

Lamont was not picked for Saints' trip to Wasps on Sunday, with Mallinder going with Paul Diggin and skipper Bruce Reihana on the wings. And Lamont has been left out of the Scotland 22 for the second Six Nations game running as Frank Hadden goes for rising star Thom Evans and Simon Danielli to take on Italy at Murrayfield.

Instead, Lamont will play for Scotland A against Italy at Perth tomorrow night. Mallinder admits if French clubs become interested in a player then it is impossible to compete if it comes down to money.

"A lot depends on players and exactly what they want out of their contract and moving," said Mallinder.

"If it is solely down to a money issue, then the French side has got a very good chance of getting the deal done, because financially a lot of the French clubs have got bigger budgets.

"If that is all they are moving for then it is an issue, but you would like to think that for some players there are other things they are considering and that is the opportunity and places where they can be challenged and improved as rugby players."