Penrith's season ended in the preliminary final, and Nathan Cleary's foot injury could keep him out for up to six months.
The Panthers are weighing their halves options for 2027, with Luke Brooks emerging as a possible recruit.
Brooks remains contracted to Manly for next season but could receive an early release. He has been linked with leaving the Sea Eagles in recent weeks.
Penrith faces uncertainty over its number six and seven positions, both at the season's start and when Cleary returns.
Blaize Talagi played at six for much of the season but was dropped late in the campaign. Cleary then tried Jack Cogger and Jack Cole alongside his son.
Talagi is dealing with an Achilles injury, while Cole is set to join the Perth Bears next season.
Reports from overseas say Starling is set to move to the English Super League, but Brooks remains free to leave Manly and could join Penrith.