By Lestyn
April 23 2004

Gareth Thomas’s transfer to Toulouse looks in serious danger of collapsing, after the Heineken cup champions refused to pay any compensation for the three-quarter. If Thomas does remain at the region, he could be playing alongside Caleb Ralph, who has agreed in principal to join the Warriors. Leighton Samuel appears determined to get his moneys worth, whether or not Thomas leaves the region or not.

Toulouse have been set an ultimatum to make them mind on 77 times capped Thomas, by next Monday.

If the French aristocrats do want to sign the 29 year old, they face a legal bill of £200,000, as the Warriors seek compensation for their captain and most influential player.

With two years remaining on that contract and Toulouse refusing to pay any compensation, it is difficult to see how unless the Warriors are willing to release him, there is nay chance of him moving.

On a day of unusually good Celtic Warrior press, New Zealand and Canterbury Crusaders wing Caleb Ralph has agreed to join them, in a deal depending on whether or not he tours with the All Blacks in the Autumn. Ralph will be given a two year contract if he does fail to make Graham Henry's squad.

Soon to be Welsh qualified Chris Horsman has agreed a new contract with the region also. The 29 year tighthead has put pen to paper on a new two year deal.