AGREEMENT is edging ever closer on a deal between the Welsh Rugby Union and the regions over a new charter.

But there remains one hitch before the three dissenting regions - Newport Gwent Dragons, Llanelli Scarlets and Cardiff Blues - agree, Neath-Swansea Ospreys having already signed.

The two parties met yesterday and still failed to reach a full agreement which is vital because if they don't WRU chief executive David Moffett insists the regions will not be paid.

And time is crucial because the date for the monthly payment to the regions from the Union was last Wednesday and the players need to be paid for September.

It is believed the hold-up came late yesterday and that the regions are unhappy about one financial matter and the length of the deal which varies from two to five years.

But the WRU remain optimistic a deal will be struck today, general manager Steve Lewis saying, "We had a positive and constructive meeting yesterday when all the outstanding issues were addressed.

"I'm confident we can move forward and that the three remaining regions will be able to sign in the next day or two."

The Union believe the late hitch is no more than a blip and are unaware of any major remaining issue.

Scarlets chief executive Stuart Gallacher is also optimistic, saying that a late hitch did occur, but that they all want to work with Wales coach Mike Ruddock and his team to help the national cause.

The document covers a wide range of matters from the WRU having a say in the appointment of coaches and specialist training staff, to nutrition and a restriction on overseas players who can be recruited, plus much more.

The document will be binding, and it is believed the Union will have the power to withhold money from a region which breaks any of the clauses.

Meanwhile, the WRU annual meeting is on Sunday when Moffett hopes to announce a restructuring of the Union's massive debt to Barclays Bank and BT.

He has been trying to reach an agreement for months and if a new arrangement can be finalised it will be a huge lifting of the burden of debt.

But finances generally have been brought under control far more and the Union have been able to announce a profit on the year.

The AGM will be the last for popular president Sir Tasker Watkins who is in his nineties and is standing down after a decade of service.