Manly's search for a halfback to replace Daly Cherry-Evans may have already begun. According to 9News Sydney's Michael Chammas, the club have been interested in luring Canberra playmaker Jamal Fogarty to the club since late last year. Fogarty has a mutual option in his contract for next year in the nation's capital, which is worth approximately $650,000. "They've had their sights on Canberra halfback Jamal Fogarty as early as last November to replace their captain," Chammas said on Wednesday night. "Sea Eagles have identified Fogarty as the ideal halves partner for Luke Brooks to replace Cherry-Evans when he leaves. "Complicating the matter is that Fogarty has an option in his contract with the Raiders, that they can take up and lock him down by round six. "If they don't do so, he will become a free agent for Manly to begin official negotiations." At 31 years of age, Fogarty is entering his prime years as a halfback and has started the season well for the Raiders, but the club have youngsters Ethan Strange and Ethan Sanders on their books long-term. Strange has partnered Fogarty since his arrival at the Green Machine last year, while the highly-touted Sanders moved from Parramatta in the off-season. According to The Sydney Morning Herald, the halfback's management requested permission to negotiate with rival clubs last year, but were knocked back by Canberra. Ricky Stuart will reportedly fly to Queensland after the side's round five game to discuss Fogarty's future with player agent Chris Orr. At this stage, neither the Sea Eagles or Raiders have confirmed the reports.
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