Parramatta is confident they will retain captain Clint Gutherson, despite a gulf in the money involved in contract negotiations.
The Daily Telegraph reports the Eels are reluctant to increase their offer of $650,000 a season over three years, which is short of the four-year $750,000 a season deal Gutherson's management is seeking.
Gutherson's junior club Manly has expressed interest in the Eels' captain, with representatives expected to meet in coming days.
The Sea Eagles will be back to their full salary cap next season, but have superstar brothers Tom and Jake Trbojevic coming out of contract at the end of 2020.
Gutherson would also be unable to play in his preferred fullback position, which would mean a switch to the centres.
He would also play second fiddle to Daly Cherry-Evans and the Trbojevic brothers at the Sea Eagles.
Gutherson is well regarded at the Eels, after being named captain at 24 and nicknamed 'King' by supporters.
It is believed the Eels are open to offering Gutherson a fourth year on his deal to give him further financial security.