However, there will be some good news for the Eels, with the announcement of a multimillion-dollar federal funding package for an upgrade to Parramatta Stadium expected as soon as Tuesday. It was predicted up to $30 million could be provided for new corporate suites and the addition of approximately 5000 extra seats. It's understood that figure may be now closer to $20m. The development has drawn an angry response from arch rivals Manly, who are furious their dilapidated home has been overlooked in the cash splash.

''We are extremely disappointed that Brookvale Oval has been overlooked again,'' said former Senate president Kerry Sibraa, who heads a Brookvale Oval Committee tasked with finding ways to salvage the historic ground. ''Rugby league supporters on the north side of Sydney, almost a million people, have been short-changed. We've got a committee meeting this Wednesday where we will come up with a firm option.''

Eels chairman Steve Sharp said a four-stage plan for an upgrade to Parramatta Stadium had been submitted to the government and he hoped an announcement on the first stage was imminent. He added that his priority was to provide the club with a centre of excellence.

''That's a real priority and that's probably what has caused negotiations to fall over with a number of top-line players,'' he said.