BRETT Stewart could have played his last game for Manly with the club admitting they would consider releasing the champion fullback with one year remaining on his contract.

Stewart has privately indicated a desire to join French Super League club Catalans next season if he can gain a release from the Sea Eagles.

The veteran No.1 is on a backended deal worth about $700,000 next season and wants this amount remunerated to consider leaving.

It’s understood Manly would be prepared to discuss a release if Stewart wants to leave.

media_camera Stewart ofis looking to follow his brother to France.

Stewart’s potential exit would also have a significant impact on the Sea Eagles’ salary cap, especially if Catalans paid a part of his $700,000 contract in a transfer fee.

Manly are working through their roster for next season and beyond, which includes upgrading the contract of rising fullback Tom Trbojevic.

Trbojevic has excelled in the No.1 jumper in Stewart’s absence and is set to become the new Prince of Brookvale. The Mona Vale Raiders junior isn’t off-contract until the end of next season, but the club wants to extend his deal to fend off interest from rival teams.

Manly believe Trbojevic holds the key to long-term success and have plans to fast track his move to fullback as soon as possible. However, the uncertainty around Stewart’s future at the Sea Eagles could leave Trbojevic waiting another season to permanently move to fullback.

Manly respect the 231-game veteran and it’s understood they will honour the final season of his contract if he wants to remain at Brookvale for one more season.

media_camera Releasing Stewart would allow Manly to lock in Tom Trbojevic.

Stewart’s manager George Mimis denied the premiership-winning fullback was in negotiations with Catalans or any rival club.

Mimis said the Manly legend recently completed surgery on his injured knee and was fully focused on returning to the field for the Sea Eagles next season.

“I can unequivocally say we have not spoken to anyone, anywhere in the world,” Mimis said.

“He has started his rehab and he is in a good state of mind. Brett’s intentions are and always have been to fulfil his contract.”

Mimis also said they had not discussed the possibility of medically retiring due to his knee injury.

If Stewart can come to terms with Manly and join Catalans, he will reunite with his brother Glenn and join former NRL stars Willie Mason and Todd Carney.