Wales have four professional sides, Ospreys, Cardiff, Scarlets and Dragons, that currently play in the 16-team United Rugby Championship (URC) which includes teams from Scotland, Ireland, Italy and South Africa.

Welsh rugby’s governing body, along with the other national unions, are stakeholders in that league.

While English bosses have revealed their intentions were on welcoming English clubs, the WRU released a more non-committal statement where they did not rule out continuing the English interest.

“Welsh men’s professional teams compete in the URC and the WRU is committed to providing four teams to the URC until the end of the 2027-28 season,” it read.

“By the end of this season, the WRU will have determined the future operating model for the men’s game in Wales.

“The WRU will continue to work with other shareholders in the URC on future Welsh representation in the competition.

“The WRU keeps under review the competition opportunities which may be available across the game and could be in the best interests of Welsh rugby.

“The idea of Anglo-Welsh competitions is something often debated by Welsh rugby fans.

“The WRU understands the appeal of the English top-flight, which is why we are pitching for two of our women’s teams, Brython Thunder and Gwalia Lightning, to be included in Premiership Women’s Rugby.”