Samoa are counting on Junior Paulo as they tackle a difficult combined Group B and C at the Rugby League World Cup.
However, Parramatta Eels officials want the prop to withdraw from Samoa's tournament plans.
Paulo is understood to have rejected that request and would only miss the competition if medical staff declared him unfit.
The experienced forward is also negotiating his future with Parramatta while remaining contracted until the end of 2026.
Talks have reportedly stalled over value, with the Eels believed to be offering about $600,000 annually for 2027.
Earlier this year, Paulo appeared likely to leave after the Perth Bears held extensive negotiations with him.
The Bears reportedly baulked at a salary demand of approximately $900,000 per season, having already made 28 signings.
Perth subsequently recruited Corey Horsburgh from Canberra instead, adding him to a group including Liam Henry and Morgan Smithies.
Paulo has since resumed discussions with Parramatta, but the financial disagreement remains unresolved.
He is one of Samoa's most experienced players and leads their forward pack.
A successful group-stage campaign would send Samoa into a semi-final against the leading Group A side, probably Australia or New Zealand.
Victory there would put Samoa into a second successive World Cup final.