Brent Cockbain has played for the Ospreys since 2004

The lock, 32, is under contract for another season but has told the Magners League champions he wants to leave.

However, the Ospreys have indicated that they mean to hold Cockbain to his contract at the Liberty Stadium.

Director of rugby Kevin Hopkins says he expects Cockbain to be present for pre-season friendlies in August.

Sale Sharks are believed to be one of several clubs interested in signing the 6ft 8in player, who has turned down the offer of a new deal with the Ospreys.

"The time is right to move, but I have not decided where I am going," Cockbain said.

The British and Irish Lions tourist and Grand Slam-winner is sure to attract plenty of attention from clubs in England and France, although other Welsh regions could also be interested.

I don't want to be holding tackle bags for the most part of next season Brent Cockbain

But despite his shock omission last week from Wales' provisional 41-man World Cup squad, Cockbain is still determined to fight for his Test place.

"I still have ambitions to play for Wales so I don't want to jeopardise that," Cockbain said.

"But I feel the time is right for a new challenge away from the Ospreys.

"I have asked to be released from my contract with the Ospreys but I'm still waiting to hear back from them."

Cockbain's long-term future at the Ospreys has been in doubt since they signed Wales lock Ian Gough from Newport Gwent Dragons last month.

That coupled with the emergence of youngsters Ian Evans and Alun Wyn Jones last season threatens to limit Cockbain's first-team involvement next term.

"I don't want to be holding tackle bags for the most part of next season," Cockbain added.

Born in Queensland, Australia, the brother of former Wallaby Matt, Cockbain joined Pontypridd in 2000 following a first season in British rugby with London Irish.

The introduction of regional rugby saw him become part of the Celtic Warriors, before Cockbain joined the Ospreys after the Warriors were disbanded in 2004.

He qualified to play for Wales on residency grounds that year and won a call-up for the World Cup in Australia after just one cap.