The governing body says it’s entering a formal consultation with the Professional Rugby Board (PRB) and could reduce the number of regions to three or even two.

In a statement, the WRU said the current system is failing and is unsustainable, having already confirmed it does not intend to continue equally funding four professional teams in the men's game.

Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys and Scarlets are the four current sides, with the WRU saying it wants a "more radical" strategy to be completed by October.