HE remains contracted to Penrith but former NSW winger Michael Gordon may finish the season as a Cronulla Shark. Sharks coach Shane Flanagan and Panthers general manager of football, Phil Gould, have opened negotiations about granting Gordon an early release from CUA Stadium.
Gordon is currently recovering from a broken leg - sustained in round one - and is due back in round 18, nine weeks before the NRL finals. There's every chance he could return as a Shark.
Just last week, Gordon announced he had signed a three-year deal with the Sharks from next season.
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But it now seems possible Gordon, on a contract worth about $200,000 a season, will transfer clubs mid-year.
The Panthers are seeking salary cap relief so selling Gordon would free-up some cash.
Cronulla want to strengthen their backline so they too want Gordon.
Unlike Penrith, Cronulla still have some room to move under their salary cap for this season.
Flanagan and Gould have made contact but, as yet, no resolution has been reached.
Cronulla would pay the Panthers some compensation for Gordon but won't outlay ridiculous money for the remainder of this season.
One source said: "No deal has been done for this year but I'm sure talks between the two clubs will continue."
The two clubs have another six weeks to find a solution before Gordon returns. Flanagan was unavailable for comment last night.
There are suggestions that Gordon was shopped around as a fullback, not a winger.
Gordon, 28, represented NSW in one State of Origin game during the unsuccessful 2010 series, kicking three goals from three attempts.
Over the past two years, Gordon and Lachlan Coote have battled for the Penrith number one jumper.
During the 2009 season, Gordon showed his amazing value by kicking 23 successive goals. He injured his ACL last year and required surgery.
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MEANWHILE Manly remain close to re-signing centre Steve Matai.
Matai has indicated he wants to see out his stellar career at Brookvale.
Cronulla was one club said to be interested in signing Matai.
Manly are also working to retain Tony Williams and Brett Stewart.
