Wales head coach Warren Gatland has revealed a bit to bring back Ross Moriarty back on a national dual contract – but that they were outbid by the WRU-owned Dragons.
The back-rower is instead nearing close a move to Dragons on a privately agreed contract, which ensures he comes to Rodney Parade over the other regions.
The Lions forward was on the radar of English and French clubs but the new rule that means the 13-times capped back rower needs to play in Wales in order to play for Wales is set to help bring him home.
“I haven’t spoken to Ross Moriarty and can guarantee there has been no influence from the Union,” said the Wales head coach, who will prosper from still being able to pick the blindside/number eight while offering him medical support.
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“We made him an offer of a national dual contract which we thought was a reasonable figure and someone else has come in with more money from their own personal point of view.
“All the regions are on salary cap so they can’t go over that.”