Manly has appointed Sir Steve Hansen as head of football, adding the former All Blacks coach to its plans for a new era.
Hansen guided New Zealand's men to an 87 per cent winning record during one of international sport's most dominant periods.
Coach Kieran Foran now wants another major figure back, with reports linking Brett "Snake" Stewart to a potential coaching position in 2027.
Stewart remains hugely popular at Manly after scoring 163 tries in 233 NRL appearances, including 79 tries across 83 matches at Brookvale Oval.
His return is not confirmed, but Foran is reportedly seeking his assistance with fullbacks Tom Trbojevic, Lehi Hopoate, Tolutau Koula and Clayton Faulalo.
Foran and Stewart won the 2011 premiership together during Manly's powerful era, which included finals appearances every year from 2007 through 2014.
The Sea Eagles reached four Grand Finals during that eight-season run.
Foran's first season as coach brought a late collapse after six consecutive losses ended their finals hopes, although Manly beat St George and lost 31-30 to the Warriors.
Faulalo emerged as a standout and is expected to compete for the vacant right-centre role following Reuben Garrick's move to the Roosters.