Cronulla have stepped up their search for a new coach by interviewing two leading candidates this week.
Sharks officials met with interim coach John Morris and Penrith assistant Cameron Ciraldo about the head coach role made vacant by Shane Flanagan's resignation last month.
According to NRL.com, Morris is the favourite for the role and has the support of the Sharks playing group after accepting the role on an interim basis following Flanagan's departure.
Ciraldo is considered an up and coming coach, but Panthers officials remain confident he will remain loyal to the club.
It is expected the Sharks will name their new head coach before their first trial match.