Thursday 10 August 2017 16:19, UK
Aviva Premiership clubs have decided unanimously to amend a league regulation affecting player transfer fees.
It follows England wing Jonny May's recent move from Gloucester to Leicester.
A regulation in the Premiership code of conduct meant that May, who had a year remaining on his contract, could move for a fixed fee.
That sum equated to one year's salary of whichever was the highest amount - his existing wages, or those at his new club.
But all 12 Premiership clubs have agreed to make a change, allowing a fee to be negotiated between the two clubs involved, rather than any set amount being paid by the buying club. It is thought it will help protect clubs with younger players on lower salaries.
Speaking about the May move, Gloucester rugby director David Humphreys said: "The reality now is that rugby is moving towards football.
"In effect, Jonny came in and handed in a transfer request. He did it and explained it was for personal reasons and for some rugby reasons.
"We have the view, Johan (Gloucester head coach Johan Ackermann) and I, that we only want players playing for Gloucester who want to be here.
"Jonny has been an outstanding player for Gloucester for many years, and the X-factor he brings will be missed, no question.
