The FAW says it would also guarantee Merthyr an annual payment of £250,000 over five years for competing in the Cymru Premier, plus an additional £30,000 for the 2026-27 season for any drop in attendances.

There would also be £25,000 towards Merthyr’s 4G pitch fund, and up to £40,000 for the installation of a new television gantry.

The FAW says the total financial package is worth £5.95m.

Tempting Merthyr to join the Cymru Premier is part of the FAW’s plan to revamp the division, having previously announced the league will expand to 16 teams and include a new end-of-season split into three divisions from 2026-27.

Wales’ top flight currently consists of 12 clubs and, after each plays home and away, the league splits into two divisions of six.

Whether Merthyr fans would be tempted to join it – regardless of the seemingly generous financial package on offer – is another matter.

The club cherish their unique situation in the English system, and are in a strong position to be promoted to National League South – the sixth tier of the English game.

They are currently nine points clear at the top of Southern League Premier South after a crowd of 1,744 turned up at Penydarren Park for Tuesday’s 1-1 draw with AFC Totton.

Merthyr say they will not comment on the financial incentives offered by the FAW until discussing the matter at a club board meeting next week.