Agustin Pichot could line up with Bath players next season

A merger between Bath and Bristol looks likely to happen before the start of next season, according to Bath director of rugby Jack Rowell.

Bristol confirmed earlier this week talks had begun over a possible amalgamation between two of English rugby's oldest clubs.

And on Sunday, Rowell told BBC Sport: "My guess from what I hear is that there will be a merger.

"There are a lot of rumours around, but the best information indicates that a merger is on the cards."

Both West Country sides are in danger of being relegated at the end of the season, but any merger would stave off relegation for another season.

Despite revealing the deal looks set to go ahead, Rowell warned it was not a necessity for Bath.

He added: "Bath are at break-even so don't have to merge with anyone."

Rowell admitted that with so much speculation hanging over the clubs, merger talks were hampering both teams' battle for Premiership survival.

This all could have waited until the end of the season Jack Rowell on the merger talks

"This all could have waited until the end of the season," Rowell said.

"The players are now talking about playing for Wessex Stormers - they are having a laugh about it - but suddenly it is their employment that is at risk."

Despite Rowell's stance, Bristol owner Malcolm Pearce hinted that a deal may not be necessary if both sides avoided relegation from the Premiership.

Pearce said: "We'll have to see what comes out in the wash.

"Added to that, all the talk about a merger with Bath can only happen if the powers that be in the game endorse it."

Bath and Bristol are currently level at the bottom of the league with 32 points from 20 games. They face each other at Ashton Gate on Sunday.

The fate of the clubs is being discussed by their respective millionaire owners, Andrew Brownsword of Bath and Pearce, whose decision to end his five-year backing leaves the club on the brink of bankruptcy.