The WRU introduced in October three licences can be granted – one to a crew in Cardiff, one within the west and one within the east.

Negotiations have continued with Ospreys, Scarlets, Cardiff and Dragons however nothing will probably be resolved on this problem earlier than the tip of the 12 months.

If an settlement can’t be reached in January, a six-month tender course of may open to find out the profitable trio.

It appeared there can be a straight shootout for survival between Scarlets and Ospreys for the west licence earlier than one other proposal emerged.

The WRU took over Cardiff in April after the organisation slipped into administration.

The governing physique has since been in search of new buyers, with Ospreys house owners, Y11 Sports activities and Media, linked to purchasing Cardiff, enabling the WRU to get to its magic variety of three.

The WRU and Y11 have each declined to remark, fuelling the fears of Ospreys supporters concerning the survival of their crew, whereas Cardiff followers have been vocal on social media in opposition to any such takeover.

“Work has continued to safe a sustainable long-term future for the Cardiff membership and its supporters,” mentioned the WRU.

“It is a vital choice and will probably be taken with the thorough scrutiny and due diligence it deserves.”

The WRU additionally needs management over enjoying affairs on the surviving three sides whereas nonetheless asking backers to place cash into the ventures.

That problem has additionally offered a significant stumbling block in negotiations and delayed the method.