RFU told London Irish can pay staff with potential US takeover moving closer

RFU under pressure since collapse of Wasps and Worcester

A general view of the stadium at the end of the Gallagher Premiership match at the Gtech Community Stadium.

The Rugby Football Union has been given assurances London Irish will meet this month’s payroll but would still have to approve a potential takeover by US investors amid fears the Exiles could be the next Premiership club plunged into financial crisis.

The London Irish owner Mick Crossan has been seeking fresh investment all season and while a US consortium is said to be close to reaching an agreement, fears have been raised that players and staff would not be paid this month.