TAULUPE Faletau’s expected move from Newport Gwent Dragons to Bath looks to have hit a stumbling block as it emerged that the No. 8 may not have full release to play for Wales if he moves to the Aviva Premiership outfit.

Wales head coach Warren Gatland had previously stated that Faletau would continue to be available for all national training sessions and matches if he leaves Rodney Parade for The Rec.

But reports have now emerged suggesting that the British & Irish Lions star may be unable to obtain full release in his contract at Bath.

Under those circumstances it is understood that Gatland would not give the switch his approval.

And with Guinness Pro12 rivals Cardiff Blues and the Scarlets registering an interest in the 24-year-old it means that Faletau would have to become a so called ‘wildcard’ in national selection.

After this year’s World Cup, Gatland is only able to pick two wildcards – a status given to certain Wales players based outside the regions under the WRU Senior Players Selection Policy.

Jamie Roberts and Rhys Priestland are current wildcard options and George North’s full-release contract at Northampton ends next summer, meaning he could also become a wildcard.

It all adds up to a headache for Gatland and means that the Dragons star man’s move over the Severn Bridge could be in doubt.

Faletau, who has not missed a minute of Test rugby since being rested against Tonga in the autumn of 2013, is out of contract next summer and saw the offer of a national dual contract withdrawn earlier this year after he missed a deadline to sign it.

Gatland said last month that Faletau’s Wales selection would not be affected by a move to Bath.

“He wouldn’t be hampered by that,” said the New Zealander.

“When clubs come looking for Toby and offer a significant transfer fee then it’s a business decision for one of our regions to potentially sell that player on, because they are struggling financially.

“So if Toby does leave he would be protected. He would be one of the players on that quota list because someone’s come looking for him and it’s not his decision to go.”

But the player in question has to have been offered to other regions at market value and only if there is no Welsh interest can he then be offered outside Wales with Gatland’s approval.

If Faletau leaves at the end of his deal next season the decision would be his alone and he would not have exempted status under the policy.

The Welsh Rugby Union declined to comment on Faletau’s current situation when contacted by the Argus.