St Helens has made Canberra hooker Tom Starling its priority for a major squad reshuffle ahead of Kevin Walters' arrival as head coach in 2027, according to The i Paper.
Starling has reportedly begun discussions with Walters' Super League team, while Canterbury Bulldogs playmaker Sean O'Sullivan has already agreed to join under the incoming coach.
Manly had previously shown interest, with a player swap considered possible, but salary-cap constraints mean the Sea Eagles must create room or offer an equivalent player.
Manly believe Starling can still contribute at NRL level despite losing his starting role at Canberra.
He opened the season as the Raiders' first-choice number nine, before Owen Pattie replaced him. Since Round 19, Starling has averaged about 30 minutes per match from the bench.
Sam Verrills had also been discussed as a St Helens option, but Starling is now reportedly at the top of the club's list.
Although contracted to Canberra until the end of 2027, Starling has an informal agreement allowing him to leave next season and negotiate with other clubs.
The 28-year-old has played 156 NRL matches since debuting for the Knights in 2018.