The Rugby Football Union says it is considering allowing Welsh teams to join England’s Prem after receiving a formal approach.
The Prem is due to expand from 10 teams to 12 in 2029, with those added to the league hand-picked according to commercial appeal rather than promoted via on-field results.
Welsh rugby is in flux, with its four regional teams set to be reduced to three and uncertainty over their future in the cross-border United Rugby Championship.
RFU chief executive Bill Sweeney said Prem expansion was conceived for English teams but did not rule out accepting the request from the Welsh Rugby Union.
“We have received a formal approach. We asked for that and we wanted it in writing. We wanted to understand a few points and that has been submitted to us,” Sweeney told the BBC.
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“Financial criteria, fanbase, geographical location and ability on the field of play will determine whether you can get into the Prem or not.
“We see that as a way of expanding the 10 teams and our focus is on expanding the English game. But we have been approached and it is responsible for us to go back and ask more questions.”
Welsh teams face competition from Worcester, London Irish and Wasps
The WRU has refused to commit to its teams playing in the URC alongside those from Scotland, Ireland, Italy and South Africa beyond 2028, when it is expected to cut either the Ospreys or Scarlets.
Sweeney added: “There are some fundamental questions there. We don’t yet have a clear understanding of how they would legally exit the URC which they are a member of, so that has to be clarified in some detail.
“Going into cross-border competition has different ramifications and we have to be clear around the complexities.”
Welsh teams would face competition from resurrected English sides Worcester Warriors, London Irish and Wasps for the extra places when the Prem expands.
Worcester currently top the Champ, English rugby’s second tier, while London Irish have announced plans to resume playing next season and Wasps are on a similar path.