The Perth Bears turned to Canberra forward Corey Horsburgh after August negotiations with Junior Paulo broke down.
Paulo's management had requested a two-year contract worth $900,000 per season.
Parramatta have offered the 32-year-old front-rower $650,000 annually, leaving negotiations unresolved.
Paulo missed most of the season after undergoing minor knee surgery.
The Daily Telegraph reported that Super League clubs believed he could be available for the 2027 season.
Despite the uncertainty, Paulo is currently expected to remain with the Eels, although money will heavily influence his next contract.
Parramatta coach Jason Ryles stressed Paulo's importance at the end of the season, saying, "Junior is super important for us in terms of experience in the middle third of the field; we are quite young there,"
If Paulo stays, he will reunite at Parramatta with international co-captain Jarome Luai, who is joining the club on a 12-month deal for 2027.
Samoan forward Jaydn Su'A will also arrive from the St George Illawarra Dragons on a three-year contract.