Thomas played for Cardiff RFC between 1997 and 2001

The Blues failed in a renewed attempt to sign Wales and Lions captain Thomas from Toulouse last week.

Blues coach Dai Young said: "We've made no secret that we would love to have him back. I think Gareth would love to come back sooner rather than later.

"But he is under contract at Toulouse so that makes it out of the question at the moment."

The Blues tried to sign utility back Thomas, 32, in the summer but were rejected.

Their latest attempt is thought to have come much closer, with Thomas - out of contract next summer - keen to move for family reasons and the Wales management wanting him back.

Toulouse coach Guy Noves is believed to have been prepared to let the player go, but the directors of the French super-club could not be convinced.

The Blues remain keen to reach a deal as a new rule this season allows Heineken Cup teams to add one extra player to their rota after the 28 September registration deadline.

GARETH THOMAS Born: 25.7.74, Ogwr, Wales Position: Centre, wing, full-back Clubs: Bridgend (twice), Cardiff, Celtic Warriors, Toulouse Wales debut: v Japan 27.05.95 Wales caps: 88 Lions caps: 3

And Young added: "He would be a great signing for us, and there is an open door here.

"We would love to have him back at some stage, but Toulouse are in the driving seat."

BBC Sport understands that Thomas is likely to have to return to Wales if he is to captain the national side under Gareth Jenkins.

The Wales management are also desperate to get such a key player out of the gruelling French league before next year's World Cup.

Thomas is Wales' record try scorer and second most-capped player, having represented his country 88 times and won three Lions Test caps.

The 6ft 3ins, 16 stone back enjoyed five years at the Arms Park from 1997-2001, having started his career at hometown club Bridgend.

He was allowed to return to the Ravens in 2001 and progressed to the Celtic Warriors regional side following its establishment in 2003.

Thomas won the Heineken Cup with Toulouse in 2005

Thomas agreed a move to Toulouse on a three-year deal the following summer where he proved a big success, winning the Heineken Cup in 2005.

In February he suffered a career-threatening mini-stroke, but returned to action for the new season.

After the Blues' summer bid failed, Thomas resolved to see out the remaining year of his Toulouse contract and thanked the club for its support throughout his illness.