Perth's incoming Bears will have a 20 per cent marquee salary-cap allowance when free agency opens on November 1, enabling an existing club sponsor to top up one player's pay.
They also hold first right of refusal if a player wants to leave before completing an existing contract, a provision that could give them first opportunity to pursue out-of-favour Roosters halfback Sam Walker.
Coach Mal Meninga has identified Walker and South Sydney's Latrell Mitchell as players of interest, but says Canterbury five-eighth Matt Burton is the Bears' priority.
The Bulldogs have allowed Burton to speak with rival clubs. They would prefer to keep him as a centre, while Perth is prepared to offer him a five-eighth role and pay accordingly.
Meninga believes Burton could lift his halves partnership with Toby Sexton if they reunite in Perth. Sexton is already signed with the Bears, and the pair helped Canterbury push towards finals football in 2024-2025.
The Bears have held preliminary discussions with Burton's manager and hope to step them up as they pursue the Canterbury star.