Despite the expectation for Tim Mannah to join Wests Tigers prior to the trade deadline of June 30, it won't alter his chances of coaching at Parramatta once he has retired.
There is still a lot for both parties to work towards where the 31-year-old will be once life after football comes around. But Mannah will be welcomed back with open, according toย The Sydney Morning Herald.
He is currently an ambassador for the Parramatta Leagues Club and the Eels are likely to be persuaded.
Mannah recently parted ways with his long-time manager, and will device the process of club movement on his own merits. In 2016, the Tigers were sanctioned for not giving clear statement about a post-retirement job for Robbie Farah, and the Eels don't want to make a similar mistake.
All parties are heavily invested in making the deal achievable, yet are weary of the salary cap rules.
"At the moment it's up to their side," said Tigers coach Michael Maguire.
"Obviously bringing Timmy to us would be handy because of the availability of the spot and because we're looking for a front-rower.
"I think he's in the process of dealing with what he needs to and I'll leave it at that."
When asked about what it will do for the club, Maguire was full of praise for the 10-year vet.
"Everyone knows what he will bring; good go-forward, good person, good leader," said Maguire.
"A lot of those things you want to build as a cultural aspect to your team. But also a lot of the experiences he can bring for the younger guys coming through. I've got a couple of younger ones that aren't quite ready for first grade, which lends a hand to finding someone like Timmy.
"He can come in and help with the younger boys but also help out with the team. The whole reason he's coming is to fight his way up, want to play in finals just like everyone else."
Since he was dropped to reserve grade by Eels coach Brad Arthur, Mannah has excelled and given himself every chance to be picked up the Tigers.
Maguire received a personal phone call from the veteran prop, and a number of eels players were taken back by the situation.
"I have no idea what is going on - they haven't told us anything and we haven't heard from Tim," said Parramatta captain Clint Gutherson.
"It's not good but .. you just want to see him happy. He's a part of the boys and the team. He's been here forever. It's sad but he has to do what is best for him and his career. I'm sure him and the club will sort it out."
