Andrew Johns believes the Newcastle Knights should make a move for Lachlan Galvin.
Reports on Wednesday indicated that the Tigers are "poised" to grant the young playmaker "permission to negotiate with rival clubs".
If Galvin is to hit the open market before June 30, Johns has floated the Knights as a potential destination.
Newcastle have slumped to a 3-7 record this season, notably struggling to find consistency in the halves.
MORE: David Nofoaluma finds new club
"If it were for this year, I think Newcastle would put their hand up," Johns said on Freddy and the Eighth.
"I don't know what's happening with our (salary) cap, or whether they can do a swap with any players ... there's been a lot of talk about Kai Pearce-Paul going to the Tigers.
"Newcastle is struggling with that stability in the halves. There would have to be some sort of swap – (the Tigers) wouldn't just let him go."
In April, Galvin announced he would leave the Tigers when his contract expires at the end of 2026.
The 19-year-old was previously offered a reported five-year, $5 million contract extension, which he and his agent turned down.
Galvin was then dropped from Benji Marshall's NRL side for Round 7, but returned to first-grade the following week.
The Tigers are now seemingly prepared to let their five-eighth hit the open market, although with some conditions.
The joint-venture are seeking a transfer fee or player in exchange for releasing Galvin, per News Corp.