Herbie Farnworth and Jack Bostock can negotiate with rival clubs from this Sunday, as the Dolphins approach November 1 facing a fight to retain players beyond 2027.
Amid that pressure, Lemuelu is understood to be nearing a multi-year extension with the Redcliffe club.
The Samoan international has attracted interest from Parramatta, Cronulla and Canberra, but the Dolphins appear set to secure his signature.
After a mixed 2025 campaign featuring both bench and starting roles, Lemuelu has established himself in the starting second row alongside Kulikefu Finefeuiaki.
In the 2026 regular season, the 28-year-old averaged 103 running metres and 32 tackles per game, scoring six tries and setting up five more.
Kodi Nikorima's move to the Dragons for 2027 makes it important for new combinations with incoming Englishman George Williams to develop quickly.
Canberra's withdrawal of its offer to Hudson Young and Liam Martin's impending entry to the open market also leave fewer second-row options for clubs seeking reinforcements.