But Carruthers is prepared to believe Taylor was making an innocent trip to Paris to watch a recent match involving the French giants - until the Scotland back-row forward tells him different.

Reports claim back-row forward Taylor has already held a meeting with officials from the French side and Carruthers is eager to speak with the player to hear the truth of the situation.

Taylor has battled back from knee and hamstring injuries during recent seasons, and Edinburgh officials say they hoped he would repay their faith in him by committing to a long-term future at Murrayfield.

Carruthers told BBC Radio Scotland, "I think we've been very, very good to Simon, but it might just be hearsay it might just be speculation.

"If it is true, I think it's discourteous and I think it's also silly.

"Sometimes guys have a bit of recreation and maybe do want to go along and watch a game in France."

The Edinburgh chief stressed that talks with Taylor had taken place recently, with the 27-year-old focused on his short-term future and this year's World Cup.

According to Carruthers, there was a similar message from Taylor's agent.

Carruthers added: "Until I sit down with both [again] I think it would be unfair on Simon to prejudge him."

Taylor won his 50th cap for Scotland in the RBS 6 Nations Championship match against Wales on February 10 and was retained in the team for today's clash with Italy.

Carruthers hinted that there could be an opt-out clause in Scott Murray's contract which could allow the Scotland second-row forward to leave later this year.

"Scott is contracted to us until December 2008, " said the chairman, "although he may have an option there.

He's certainly contracted to Edinburgh until after the World Cup.

"Scott's a professional and I'm sure he'll see out his contract. Some guys will look in the autumn of their careers to pursue money in warmer climes.

"If we can keep these guys we'd like to. We've always said that we want to retain the best Scottish guys. If that means that some move on and some young guys get the opportunity then unfortunately that's the cycle we're in, " he added.