The WRU insists no decisions have been made and that it is willing for plans to be shaped after discussions with the professional clubs, players and supporters.

But the plans have sparked an unfavourable reaction towards the WRU’s preferred two-team solution from many quarters, including former bosses Gareth Davies and David Moffett.

Dragons have been the most vocal side, stating Welsh rugby “deserves better”, claiming no compelling case had been made for cutting two regions and the structures proposed were unacceptable.

“We are extremely disappointed in the initial proposals – they simply don’t add up,” said Dragons chairman David Wright.

“There is no way we can agree to the proposals as they currently are. Welsh rugby deserves better and the WRU must rethink.”

Dragons and Scarlets supporters protested together at a recent pre-season friendly, with Llanelli and Newport councillors vocal in their criticism. Scarlets fans plan to protest before the opening league match on Saturday.

Players are also unhappy, including Ospreys and Wales captain Jac Morgan who has indicated he would leave to play club rugby outside Wales if his current side was culled.

The Welsh Rugby Players Association (WRPA) has also warned the WRU proposals would “drive talent to leave Wales”.

“The collective view of the players is clear: the proposed two-club model does not have their support,” said WRPA chief executive Gareth Lewis.

Lewis said players believe the plans would reduce professional playing opportunities in Wales, particularly for younger players, shrink the player pool available for the national team, risk alienating supporters, damage the historic rivalries that define Welsh rugby and limit development.