Driveshaft Noises

[Malons01]

My Vauxhall Viva has been making loud rattling noises for some time.   These have previously been resolved by changing the drop links on the front wheels, but when the latest noise got worse and worse, my garage carried out further investigations. They have now said that my drive shaft is loose and that the only way to resolve the issue is to do a complete gearbox and clutch change, at a cost of £1400 !!!!   This sounds mega expensive and unnecessary as there doesn't appear to be anything wrong with the gearbox or clutch, its just the rattling noise that's happening.     Does this sound right and has it happened to anyone else ? 

[Vauxhall Owners Club]

Not sure about the diagnosis unless they are referring to the driveshaft / differential support bearings but you would hear the gearbox whining loudly through all the gears if this was the case

Maybe a second diagnosis is needed?