It’s not yet known if the IRFU have been in contact with Murray about extending a deal to keep playing in this country, but it could come as a worry for the former two-time Heineken Cup Champions, that Racing President Jacky Lorenzetti is tonight a guest at O'Gara's testimonial dinner in Cork.

The news of the French clubs apparent interest in Murray has come only a day after Munster coach Rob Penney spoke of how the winding up of the Heineken Cup, could increase bargaining power for the French clubs to come and raid our provinces for top players.

Donnacha Ryan and Paul O’Connell are also out of contract at the end of the season and there is no telling if they too will up and leave.

Penny though, speaking yesterday said he wasn’t worried about that right at this point.

"Look, I haven't looked too far into it, but that's obviously a pretty big statement."

He continued: "No, not at this point (there is no worry) as there is too many things up in the air, but potentially there is a challenge there.”

In recent weeks, Penny has spoken of how important Murray is to his side and urged the IRFU to ensure he stays put.

"If he's not the best in the world right now he's not that far away.

"Conor is a bit of a genius. To produce a performance like that coming off the back of no football was superb. He really is a special talent."

The IRFU are facing into a period of negotiations with a number of their international roster over the coming weeks and months and unless they move quickly and decisively run the risk of losing them to French or English clubs.