Manu confirms talks with Sharks

Off-contract Penrith forward Sika Manu says he hasn’t ruled out remaining with the club as he strives to secure one more NRL deal before moving to England.

The veteran second-rower confirmed that his management has been in negotiations with Cronulla but a contract is far from finalised.

Manu, 28, admitted being tempted by the lures of the Super League but still harbours a desire for one last stint in the NRL.

“Right now I’m talking to as many clubs as I can. Whatever’s best for my family, that’s where we’ll be going,” Manu told AAP.

“My manager’s spoken to Penrith and they’re still in there. It just really depends on the talks with my manager.”

The former New Zealand representative expressed frustration at not being able to secure his future earlier in the season but is hopeful of reaching an agreement within the next fortnight.

Asked whether he expected to make an announcement soon, he said: “Nah, not close at all. I’m still sorting stuff out with my manager.

“It’s frustrating and very stressful. We wanted to get it done straight away so I could focus on getting football.

“(But) it’s taking longer than expected. Hopefully we can get it done in the next couple of weeks.”

Manu was one of the first signings made by Panthers boss Phil Gould since leaving Melbourne at the end of 2012 and has since been a staple on the Penrith right edge.

Meanwhile, the Panthers have announced the signing of Wests Tigers youngster Te Maire Martin on a three-year deal beginning in 2016.

The 19-year-old was selected in the NYC team of the year last season and was also picked for the Junior Kiwis.

“Te Maire is one of the outstanding young talents coming through the NYC system,” Gould said.

“We believe he’s a player of great potential, a long-term NRL player and were excited to have him here at the Panthers.”

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