The Parramatta Eels are understood to be the latest club out of the running for Penrith Panthers prop Moses Leota.
Leota could well be seeking a high six-figure deal for what will be his last contract, and is willing to leave the foot of the mountains to do it.
The Eels were a club believed to be well and truly in the mix for Leota's signature, but a fresh News Corp report suggests they are now out of the running, bulking at his asking price.
The Eels are in the midst of their own squad transition, but have a number of experienced players on the books already and could be looking elsewhere for their next signatures.
Leota was understood to have had as many as 12 clubs express interest in his services, although some doubt was thrown over that.
The Canberra Raiders were one club believed to be in the mix, although expressed they hadn't had so much as a discussion about the veteran prop, while the Brisbane Broncos also expressed doubt over any interest being shown.
Penrith earlier this year gave Leota permission to have a look around at the open market, although not to sign anywhere.
Leota and the club are both keen for a deal to be struck for the prop to remain at the foot of the mountains, but the reality of the salary cap is biting hard on Ivan Cleary's side.
The loss of Brian To'o has freed up some money, but the Penrith brass have made it clear to Leota that their priorities lie elsewhere - in Liam Martin, Isaah Yeo and Nathan Cleary among others.
It essentially means Penrith won't even entertain a deal for Leota until they have an understanding what is happening with the trio.
Martin was believed to have met with Penrith this week and will now delay any further proceedings until the end of the season, while mixed reports have emerged around Cleary and Yeo, as to whether the duo have even begun talks with the club.
If one or more of the trio leave, it seems a good chance that Leota will ultimately stay at Penrith, but without that, he is far more likely to leave himself and finish his career elsewhere.
