Penrith Panthers and NSW Blues star forward Liam Martin has made it clear the club will need to pay a figure they likely can't afford if they want his services beyond the end of 2027.
While talks are set to continue this week, the clock is ticking on the Panthers if they want his signature before November 1.
With Martin testing free agency now seeming a better than small possibility, there is a very real chance he will join Brian To'o on the way out of the club at the end of 2027.
The unfortunate truth of the situation for the Panthers is that they will have to shake some players at the end of next year to keep their premiership-competitive side together.
It's what they have done so well through the dynasty of success, but the loss of any of their top players, Martin included, would be a bitter pill to swallow given To'o has already confirmed his departure, and rumours continue to swirl around Nathan Cleary and Isaah Yeo.
With Penrith's salary cap stretched, here are the clubs who could make a play for Martin from November 1.
4. Parramatta Eels
The Eels have just lost Kelma Tuilagi, and are already a little short in the second-row position.
While they have some solid options floating around the club, it's clear Jack Williams needs to be being used in the middle third.
With him there, they are only an injury or suspension away from being seriously short on the edges of the park.
Martin is a hard-nosed winner, and that in itself is something Jason Ryles needs more of in his side.
