Second tier English club Ealing Trailfinders could join the Welsh Rugby Union and merge or replace one of the four current regions, under a radical proposal that's been discussed.
Following Ealing's failure to gain entry into the Gallagher Premiership, WalesOnline understands their players were told in a meeting the club are in negotiations with the WRU and United Rugby Championship to potentially compete in the URC.
Under the suggested plan that's been discussed at a high level, one of the financially struggling regions would either fall on its sword or merge with Ealing, but play out of London. A number of top Wales internationals would be expected to play for the London-based side, who are bankrolled by wealthy entrepreneur Mike Gooley, as a result.
Welsh rugby is in the midst of a financial crisis with the WRU and the four professional regions currently in the process of thrashing out a new long-term funding deal with heads of terms having been signed.
The resignation of former chief executive Steve Phillips has slowed down the process but a new deal is very close to completion.
It will result in financial pain for all four professional sides with salaries set to be aggressively pushed down amid the introduction of a new £5million salary cap which will be phased in over the next couple of years.
The turmoil has seen Welsh rugby players threaten strike action, with individuals speaking out with their futures currently in limbo. You can read the latest on that here.
Complications are aplenty when it comes to any potential merger with approval from the Rugby Football Union, other URC clubs, and World Rugby needed.
The grim financial climate has led to suggestions Wales can only afford three professional sides moving forward with radical solutions being considered.
Whatever the solution to Welsh rugby's financial situation any measure has to be pushed through very quickly, ideally for the start of the 2023/24 season.
Ealing have been contacted for comment.
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