Canberra star John Bateman could seek a release from his deal at the end of the season, as reported by NRL.com.
Ahead of Sunday's grand final clash against the Sydney Roosters, the Raiders back-rower told NRL.com he is likely to seek an upgraded contract in the off-season despite still having two years to run on his deal.
The Englishman's current deal is estimated to be worth between $350,000-$400,000, while he could likely command double that value on the open market, a price the Raiders can't afford.
"I've got a new agent over here, I'm with Isaac Moses," Bateman told NRL.com.
"I don't know where Canberra are at with their salary cap. While I'm over here mate, I have to do what's best for me and best for my family. Moving forward I'll just have to weigh up my options and see what's there.
"But Canberra is the most important thing to me this week, and once this gets out of the way we'll sit down with Canberra and my agent will do what he will have to do, he will do his job. Going forward we'll just go from there."
Canberra chief executive Don Furner said the club would begin negotiations with Bateman after this weekend's decider.
"Of course we want to keep him," Furner said.
"We'll enjoy the grand final and get through this week and then we’ll worry about sitting down with John after that."
While admitting that he is indebted to Canberra coach Ricky Stuart, Bateman said he must prioritise his family.
"I owe Stick [Stuart] a lot," Bateman said
"He's took me in and looked after me. He's been a father figure to me, mate. When my family has been away he's been the man I've gone to, sat there and cried to. He's taken me in and looked after me. He's a great bloke and I'm really grateful for what he's done for me.
"But I need to do what's best for my family. They know that. My little girl, I want to give her the best opportunities and life and I'll see what those opportunities are. I don't know where Canberra is at with what people are coming and going but we'll sort it out after the season.
"You've got to earn as much money in your career as you can mate, I won't lie to you. She's so young and I need to give her the best opportunities in life. Whatever they are I will do because that's what's most important to me – my family."