The Ospreys are trying to bring Wales' Liam Williams home to Welsh rugby.
They are emerging as strong contenders to secure the 28-year-old’s signature as he comes out of contract at Saracens.
The Scarlets are also watching the situation but have Leigh Halfpenny on their books. Whether they commit to pursuing Williams could depend on if they retain Halfpenny, who, like his Wales squad-mate, becomes a free agent this summer.
A potential sticking point for the two regions could be over Williams’ valuation within Welsh rugby’s pay structure. The top 38 players are subject to assessments from a panel, with negotiations and appeals usually following.
It is believed that in Williams’ case, his value is disputed to the point where it could yet jeopardise his return to Wales, with his representatives said to believe he is worth more than the figures passed their way.
Failure to unblock the issue would leave the Lions Tests player open to offers to either stay in England or move to France.
And that could lead to questions about how Welsh rugby allowed a leading player to stay beyond the regional scene at a time when the professional sides in Wales are finding it hard to make headway on the pitch.
Given that he has more than 60 caps, Williams could take up a deal outside Wales without losing his Test eligibility.
But while he has had other matters on his mind of late, as part of Wales’ World Cup squad, it is understood he is now contemplating heading back home.
The Ospreys hope he will link with them.
Brought through at Waunarlwydd RFC, Williams was one who got away from the Liberty Stadium region, ending up at the Scarlets via Llanelli RFC.
The Ospreys have the likes of George North, Gareth Anscombe , Owen Watkin and Scott Williams in their back division and believe the acquisition of the fearless and world-class Williams , who can play at wing or full-back, would add another dimension to an already powerful back line.
His move to London has been a success, seeing him develop as a player and help Saracens to victory in last season’s Champions Cup final and also take the Gallagher Premiership title. In 23 outings for club and country in 2018-19, Williams walked off the field a winner on 22 occasions.
A further dimension is that Saracens are awaiting the outcome of a six-month salary cap investigation. If the outcome rules that they breached Premiership Rugby regulations, they could face sanctions and possibly see the need to look at their playing budget. Europe’s leading club have already committed to signing England international Elliot Daly, who can play in the back three as well as at centre.
Williams is set to decide definitively on his plans after he returns from the World Cup.
