Cardiff Blues chairman Peter Thomas is confident the region can develop a dual contract system that will keep Jamie Roberts in Wales.
Roberts' Blues contract ends at the end of this season and the Wales and Lions centre has admitted he may consider leaving Wales.
Top 14 clubs like Toulouse and Racing Metro are believed to be keen on offering Roberts a huge salary which could see him following fellow Wales internationals like Gethin Jenkins, Mike Phillips and James Hook to France.
But Thomas believes a proposed joint contract will convince Roberts to stay with his home region.
"I like to think it will all be done in the next month," Thomas told the Rugby Paper.
"Regional rugby on its own cannot offer the huge amounts that some countries are paying.
"However, a combination of region and country together gives us every chance of finding a solution.
"I spoke to Jamie yesterday. I know he would be delighted if we could put a package together which will keep him at the Blues through to the next World Cup.
"Jamie is very relaxed about the future and appreciative of what people are doing on his behalf.
"Provided he is looked after commercially and financially to the level he deserves he will stay in Wales.
"I am very confident that the current discussions will result in the right solution being found."
Wales coach Warren Gatland wants his players to stay in Wales as French clubs do not have to release their players for Wales matches outside the IRB window or for all training sessions.
The regions are all working with the WRU to make that happen so that the best players remain in an environment where they are looked after, kept in prime condition and not flogged to death," Thomas explained.
"When a player goes out of Wales he doesn't get 13 days off before an international.
"The Welsh internationals in France get six. That's no good for the Welsh team.
"Preparation is everything. We have an amazing set of youngsters in Wales. We have to ensure their future is here."
Comments
makemehappy says...
Hard to believe this hasn't been resolved years ago in a professional era!
Posted 13:19 19th October 2012
melkdave says...
So are the WRU thinking/looking at duel contracts part paid by the union the other by club Could be good news if so..Wonder who would have the final say on when he plays or rests ??As that could cause problems ,and tensions between club and union.But if done right it would certinally help keep welsh players in Wales ,and give the clubs a boost.even if it doesnt save them any money.
Posted 15:52 08th October 2012