It has been reported that the club have served a Notice of Intent to appoint administrators, following a meeting of the clubs players and staff.

A WRU statement said: "We are aware Cardiff Rugby have confirmed notice of intention to appoint administrators, and we are working closely with the Cardiff Board and the administrators to safeguard the future of professional rugby in Cardiff."

The news will come as a big blow to club rugby which has been particularly affected by financial issues, with several sides including Wasps and Worcester going out of business in recent years.

The WRU were set to announce plans around the funding of all four of their professional sides, Cardiff, Ospreys, Dragons and Scarlets under the 'Professional Rugby Agreement'.

Cardiff were eliminated from the European Rugby Challenge Cup at the weekend following a 35-20 defeat to Connacht.