"The reality is [Eels general manager of football] Mark O'Neill and [Gutherson's manager] Sam Ayoub have continued their dialogue, they met today, but there is no deadline," Gurr told the Herald. "The negotiations will continue because there is no deadline. We have continually told Sam and Clint we want him to stay at the club – we want Gutho at the Eels. He's the captain, he's a popular member of our club, so nothing has changed there."

There are some people at the Eels still pushing for Gutherson to make a call as soon as possible. Gutherson himself conceded at the start of the month he was frustrated by the intense speculation about his future beyond this year.

Ayoub was far from impressed when first informed about the deadline, and it is understood on Tuesday O'Neill informed him Gutherson would have more time. Gutherson had hoped to sign off on a deal before Christmas.

The Herald learned a rival Sydney club asked about Gutherson's movements within hours of hearing of the Eels' Friday deadline.

Manly have been one club interested in luring Gutherson home. The 24-year-old still resides on the northern beaches and remains friends with several Sea Eagles, including Jake Trbojevic.