Ospreys struggle to keep hold of in-demand Walsh

They will also require fly-half cover and have been linked with Newcastle Red Bulls' Boeta Chamberlain as a possible replacement.

Jones said the region are exploring a number of options given the uncertainty around Walsh's future, but moved to play down speculation surrounding South African Chamberlain.

"He's not anybody we're looking at any more deeply than anybody else," said Jones.

"We're looking at lots of 10s because we don't know where the Jack Walsh situation is going to land.

"I'm not sure where the Chamberlain one has come from in terms of the headlines, but he's one of a number of players agents have sent across our desk."

Jones added financial considerations will also shape recruitment decisions: "We're doing our due diligence on all of them and seeing what's the best fit for us and what we can afford."

Ospreys boosted by Hardy re‑signing despite interest from elsewhere

While uncertainty remains over Walsh's future, Ospreys received a boost on Wednesday with scrum-half Kieran Hardy signing a new contract with the region.

The Wales international has impressed since arriving from Scarlets and establishing himself as a key figure in the squad.

Jones said securing Hardy's long-term future was a significant moment for the club.

"He's made a big impact since he's come into the team. I think he's scored 13 or 14 tries for us in a short space of time," said Jones.

"We knew we were signing a very good player when we got him through the door and that's proved to be the case.

"He's added his own style to the team when he's played, he's pushed the other nines as well and he's added to the mix that we've got."

Hardy had attracted interest from a number of clubs, but Jones believes his decision to stay reflects the direction in which the team is heading.

"To keep a player of his quality, who was wanted by a lot of other teams… he's an international at the end of the day… it speaks volumes about the team, his team-mates and the environment we're trying to create here," said Jones.

"Hopefully that's a good indication of the Ospreys and why he wants to stay."