In a statement to the press, Mr Moffett said. 'I can confirm that I have been in discussions with both Peter Thomas and Leighton Samuel to consider the possibility of merging the two regions. I was first approached over the Christmas holiday period and I immediately raised the matter with the WRU chairman David Pickering.

'I must stress that these discussions are at a very preliminary stage, although both David and I felt it was vital to raise them with the WRU directors. To that end we have called a meeting of the board of directors for Friday.

'All five regions have experienced different problems since they were first formed in the summer. The discussions between the Blues and the Warriors have come at a time when they are both assessing the first six months of their business lives and are trying to plan the best way forward.

'In terms of all sides wanting to do what is best for Welsh rugby, I think it is important that we continue to discuss every option that might improve professional club rugby in Wales.'