Warren Gatland arrives back in Wales this week with appointing a new defence coach at the top of his agenda.
WalesOnline understands Paul Gustard is now the clear front runner for the job (read the inside track on his coaching style here), but Sale Sharks assistant Mike Forshaw could also be considered.
Gatland has already wielded the axe since replacing Wayne Pivac as Wales head coach, parting ways with both Stephen Jones (attack) and Gethin Jenkins (defence).
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It is no secret Gatland is also a big admirer of Welshman Steve Tandy who is currently in charge of the Scotland defence, and who he worked with on the 2021 British & Irish Lions tour of South Africa.
But Scotland are reluctant to release the former Ospreys boss early from his contract, and it is looking increasingly likely Gatland will have to wait until after the Rugby World Cup to bring him back to Wales.
Gustard was sacked as Harlequins director of rugby in 2021 but has enjoyed tremendous success as a defence coach.
The 46-year-old played an integral part in transforming Saracens into one of the best defensive sides in Europe while he was also successful in the early days of Eddie Jones' reign as England boss.
After leaving Quins he enjoyed a stint at Benetton while he is now at French giants Stade Francais.
Gatland is currently assessing his options before making a final decision but one man who has been on his list is Sale defence coach Forshaw.
READ MORE: Wales' options if WRU block Rob Howley move as Gatland loyalty leaves few clear candidates
The former Great Britain rugby league star started his coaching career in union a decade ago, and has been with Sale Sharks throughout.
Under his tenure Sale have been one of the most difficult sides in the Gallagher Premiership to break down.
But while Forshaw has many admirers in the game it would come as a shock if he was appointed, with Gustard the more likely selection.
Gatland has some work to do with regards appointing an attack coach as well after the Welsh Rugby Union's non-executive directors blocked his request to appoint Rob Howley who was banned from the game for 18 months in 2019 for breaching World Rugby's betting regulations.
Gatland had offered Howley the job but it was turned down with Mark Jones an alternative option among others.
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