NEWPORT Gwent Dragons chief executive Stuart Davies has confirmed that the Rodney Parade region have asked the Welsh Rugby Union for permission to sell Wales ace Taulupe Faletau and hopes the long-running saga will be settled soon.

The Dragons held negotiations with Aviva Premiership big guns Bath over the summer about a transfer for the Lions back row forward, who has a year left on his contract.

They want permission to release the Pontypool-raised forward for a six-figure fee rather than lose him for nothing next summer as Faletau, who missed a WRU deadline for a national dual contract, has made it clear he fancies a fresh challenge.

“Throughout the summer there has been speculation regarding Taulupe’s future, and unfortunately this has resurfaced immediately following the conclusion of the World Cup,” said Davies.

“It disappoints me enormously that this is playing out in the public domain, since ordinarily I would not wish to comment on such matters until they have been resolved one way or the other.

“Given the circumstances, however, I feel obligated to confirm that a transfer request has been submitted, such that we may consider our options and bring to a swift conclusion a matter that is both distracting and unsettling to all parties concerned.

“I have no wish to share anything further but may be happy to do so once the matter has been concluded, which I hope will be very soon.”

The Rugby Services Agreement between the four pro sides in Wales and the governing body states that the WRU have to give approval for Faletau to be sold overseas.

Warren Gatland has stated he would rather his stars stay in Wales as it makes them available for all international training camps.

If the green light isn’t forthcoming then the Dragons must weigh up whether to plough on and risk any sanctions.