Melbourne Storm are prioritising young talent, recently securing dummy-half Jai Bowden through the 2030 season.
That strategy could become crucial if captain Harry Grant rejects a 2028 player option, which Sports Confidential says must be accepted or declined by November 1.
The report contrasts with the NRL website listing Grant as contracted through 2028, following Melbourne's announcement of a two-year extension on November 20, 2025.
Grant previously activated an option covering the 2026 season in 2024.
The Queensland Maroons hooker would join a formidable free-agent group featuring Latrell Mitchell, Nathan Cleary and Herbie Farnworth.
However, Melbourne remain confident Grant will stay and are prepared to "move heaven and earth" to retain him with a longer-term agreement.
Grant has been with the Storm since 2018, apart from a 2020 loan-and-swap spell at Wests Tigers for Paul Momirovski.
Cameron Munster is also off-contract after 2027 and has discussed potentially returning to Queensland.
Jack Howarth may leave for Parramatta in 2027, although Melbourne explored exchanging him for Zac Lomax, whose NRL rights belonged to the Eels.