Cronulla’s financial problems haven’t prevented the club from splashing the cash on top playing talent, with the Sharks targeting Martin Taupau and Braidon Burns in a recruitment drive that is already poised to land Shaun Johnson.

The Shire outfit’s already small front office took a further hit when 10 staffers were made redundant during the week. Cronulla remain without a major sponsor or a naming-rights stadium backer and have reportedly emerged from their 2018 campaign $3 million in the red.

The Sharks could also face a fine if an NRL probe finds they cheated the salary cap, although the fact the club self-reported could limit the damage. The grim financial position comes at a time when all 16 clubs are being funded to the tune of $13 million per season - or 130 per cent of the salary cap.

Martin Taupau is on Cronulla's radar. Credit:NRL Photos

Despite the dramas, the Sharks have salary cap money available and are looking to spend it. As well as tabling an offer to former Warriors halfback Shaun Johnson, the Herald can reveal Cronulla is also keen to add Kiwis teammate Taupau if Manly are prepared to grant him a release.