The Welsh Rugby Union are sympathetic to introducing central contracts for their international stars should they be approached by Wales' four regions.
BBC Sport understands there is support among WRU chiefs for central contracts representing a shift in attitude at Welsh rugby's governing body.
Ospreys boss Scott Johnson warned the regions might need "top-ups" from the union to keep Wales' stars in Wales.
Johnson spoke as Ospreys' James Hook is set for a big-money move to France.
