Penrith have given Kiwi captain Dallin Watene-Zelezniak permission to negotiate with other clubs less than two weeks after pan66.com revealed he was on the radar of Parramatta.
The Panthers on Thursday afternoon released a statement to say Watene-Zelezniak had requested permission to negotiate with rival teams.
"Earlier this week, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak's management sought permission from Panthers to speak with other NRL clubs regarding Dallin’s immediate and future playing career.
"This permission was granted following discussions by the club’s retention and recruitment committee.
"Out of respect for all parties, the club will be making no further comment at this time."
The 23-year-old outside back, who has played 11 Tests for New Zealand as well as 106 Telstra Premiership appearances for Penrith, was not selected for Thursday night's clash with Parramatta at Bankwest Stadium.
It’s understood the Eels want to play Watene-Zelezniak as a right centre and shift Brad Takairangi to the forwards, but could be tempted to play him at fullback and shift Clint Gutherson to the halves in the absence of the injured Dylan Brown should he arrive in the coming weeks.
