The Perth Bears are now focusing on Canberra Raiders forward Corey Horsburgh after missing out on the chance to sign Eels star Junior Paulo.
As reported by The Daily Telegraph, the Bears plan to make a strong move to entice Horsburgh away from the Raiders.
Negotiations faltered because Junior Paulo is requesting a two-year contract worth $900,000 per season.
The newly established NRL club found this asking price "scoffed" at, and Paulo along with his management rejected the counteroffer presented by Perth.
Bears coach Mal Meninga traveled to Canberra to discuss prospects with Horsburgh on Tuesday afternoon.
Horsburgh, who is 28 years old, is under contract with the Raiders until the end of the 2027 season, yet the club has given him the green light to explore options.
The tight salary cap at the Broncos complicates their ability to sign Horsburgh, putting the Bears in a favorable position.
The absence of Horsburgh from the Raiders' forthcoming match against the Cronulla Sharks spots the Bears as the frontrunners for his signature.
A notable incident occurred in the last ten minutes of the Raiders' home game against the Newcastle Knights, where Cory Horsburgh received a sin bin penalty for striking Dane Gagai of the Knights.