Shane Geraghty, the latest England international targeted by big spending French clubs, has been urged to stay at London Irish and turn himself into an even bigger star.

Exiles captain Bob Casey believes Geraghty could make even more money by completing his rugby education in England under the guidance of the club's highly rated coaching duo of Toby Booth and Mike Catt.

Stade Francais have already signed London Wasps' England duo James Haskell and Tom Palmer and have been linked with Geraghty after he invoked a clause in his contract to talk to other clubs even though he has a year left on his deal.

Stade coach Ewen McKenzie last night played down his club's interest in Geraghty, who has admitted he faces a tough call over his future.

"My decision will be the most suitable one for my England career," said the 22-year-old, who featured in a 20-20 draw against Bath on Saturday. "It is a big decision, and not one I will be making lightly. I will speak to the club again, look at my options."

Casey believes the best option for Geraghty is to stay at Irish, where he can benefit from the support of another versatile back, World Cup winner Catt.

The skipper said: "Obviously it is very hard if a French club makes a big offer, but the fact is that Shane is going to have a long career and his earnings potential is so great he can cash in later on. For now, he is so young and we want to help him develop into a top international class player.

"We are good mates and Shane knows how highly we rate his talents and we really need him at this club. He is learning so much and enjoys working closely with Mike Catt.

"Shane is a massive part of what we want to do as a club and he is one of the most talented footballers England has produced in years and the exciting thing is that he will only get better. We are very hopeful that Shane is going to stay with us and we are doing everything we can to make that happen."