With a bulging war chest of $800,000, a bullish Cronulla are ready to enter the player market and land a marquee signing to replace Val Holmes.

And out-of-favour Warriors halfback Shaun Johnson is set to be coach Shane Flanagan’s first target.

Flanagan is feeling bruised and let down by the circumstances surrounding Holmes’ shock departure to the NFL, but is comforted by the cash the fullback’s exit frees up.

He will hold further talks with South Sydney utility Alex Johnston’s management while taking a serious look at Kiwi Johnson.

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The Warriors have told Johnson he is welcome to explore options beyond 2019 but a big money offer from the Sharks may bring that deadline forward.

The New Zealand club are unlikely to stand in Johnson’s way should he be the subject of a long-term offer.

His arrival at Cronulla would allow Matt Moylan to replace Holmes at fullback, leaving Johnson and Chad Townsend to play in the halves.

“Holmes leaving has actually left the club in a very strong position to hit the player market because no other club has $800,000 to spend,” a Sharks insider said.

“Newcastle have a bit of room left in their cap but nothing like this, so Flanno can basically have his pick of any player off contract next year.

“It will be like a feeding frenzy among player managers as they race to get their clients in front of Flanno.

“It’s a chance to get your player to a very competitive club on some decent dollars.”

Cronulla haven’t completely given up hope Holmes will re-appear at some stage next year if his NFL dream sours, but they were never confident he would be a Shark for life.