Cronulla NRL coach Shane Flanagan has expressed his interest in signing off-contract Canterbury five-eighth Josh Reynolds.

Reynolds is negotiating with the Bulldogs to extend his NRL deal, but the club has moved to hose down rumours he is set to leave Belmore after speculation that they are not willing to meet his wage demands.

“I’ve known Josh for many years and, if he’s going to leave the Bulldogs, I’ll talk to him,” Flanagan told the Nine Network.

“He’s one of those players you look for and, if you need points, get the ball in Josh’s hands.

“He’s exciting and people go to watch him play.”

Former NSW State of Origin playmaker Reynolds is one of three members of the Bulldogs’ spine who are off-contact, with fullback Will Hopoate and hooker Michael Lichaa also in talks with the club.

Coach Des Hasler is also without a contract, with his job under heavy scrutiny after last weekend’s 36-0 loss to Manly.

“I’ve known Josh since he was a kid. We’re from the same junior club,” Flanagan said.

“I know his father and his mother so that’s where that interest comes from.”