The club also gave a "no comment" to speculation that they are trying to prize England Under-21 prop David Wilson away from Newcastle.

Jess scored 17 tries for Launceston, who are resigned to losing their star player after suffering relegation after finishing bottom of division one.

The 24-year-old claims he is talking to Saints as well as Leeds and Exeter, but his preferred choice is a move to Franklin's Gardens and a shot at the Premiership.

Jess, who started his career at Cornish Pirates before a move to Newport-Gwent Dragons was marred by a broken leg, played every minute for Launceston last season.

But Saints were unmoved by Jess' comments and on reports linking the club with a bid for prop Wilson, who has a year left on his contract at Newcastle.

Falcons chairman David Thompson has reportedly told Wilson, who was called up by England Saxons this week, he will not be allowed to leave and will have to see out his contract with the club.