Cardiff Blues coach Dai Young says he would like to sign a replacement for number eight Xavier Rush next season, having missed out on Gareth Delve.

"Take a look at the back row next season and we're likely to be without Martyn Williams, Sam Warburton and Andy Powell on Wales weekends," said Young.

"With the Italians coming into the Magners League there are going to be a lot of games over that period.

"That's why we're looking at a number eight, really."

Current Blues and Wales number eight Powell has again been linked in the media with a move to Super League side Crusaders.

It remains to be seen if we've got the finances to add to the squad Dai Young

But Young is confident that the British and Irish Lions man will remain in Cardiff for at least the final year of his contract next season.

The player's agent also denied any knowledge of the Crusaders story that featured in newspapers on Thursday.

New Zealander Rush will be sorely missed at the Blues, having chosen to seek pastures new with Ulster next season.

Wales number eight Delve had been suggested as his replacement, but the Gloucester man chose to join the newly formed Melbourne Rebels.

"We put our best offer on the table, but it was his decision and at the end of the day it's up to us to look elsewhere.

"We have one or two options and we'll see whether they're favourable.

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"If we can afford a number eight that's what we'll do, but the decision has to be made at board level.

"We're certainly not in the market for some of the big names that are being thrown at us.

"It remains to be seen if we've got the finances to add to the squad.

"I don't envisage many signings for next season."

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