The 24-year-old has made 22 appearances for the Saints since his debut against Rotherham three years ago. He has also been an important part of the Wanderers team and was the top try scorer of the Northern Conference in the A League in 2004/05 season.

However, competition for places in the centre and on the wing has intensified, especially with the emergence of Jon Clarke at No 13.

Vilk said: “With the fans, the facilities, the players and the backroom staff at Saints, it is one of the best clubs in the country and I am really sorry to leave. However, I feel I need to look for regular rugby elsewhere.

“I want to say thank you to James Sinclair and the academy staff for developing me, Budge and Grase for their support with the sevens and with playing first team rugby, and to Keith Barwell and the fans for their support during the last three years. It’s been fantastic.” 

Director of rugby Budge Pountney said: “We are sorry to see Vilky go but completely understand his reasons for wanting to try to secure regular rugby elsewhere. We are very proud of his achievements on the sevens circuit and, indeed, for us in our first and second teams. Vilky will always be a welcome visitor to Franklin’s Gardens.”