TRENT Barrett has reportedly turned down desperate pleas from Manly hierarchy to coach on until the end of 2019.

The Sea Eagles coaching job appears in limbo with Barrett trying to be released from his contract before July 2019 after falling out with Manly over a perceived lack of infrastructure and resigning mid-season.

According to Channel 9, the Sea Eagles approached Barrett to stay on for an extra couple of months to see out the 2019 season, but he’ll be sticking to his notice period which ends on July 19.

Round 20

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South Sydney premiership-winning mentor Michael Maguire has already knocked back the Manly job, rejecting a three-year offer last week.

Sea Eagles skipper Daly Cherry-Evans said he understands why potential coaches are steering clear.

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Sea Eagles coach Trent Barrett. Source: Getty Images

“I can certainly understand why people are shying away coming to the club,” Cherry-Evans said.

“It just doesn’t look very appealing at the moment and that’s the honest truth.

“I do believe that we’re a few key decision away from the club really turning it around.”

Barrett’s assistant John Cartwright is tipped to take over the Sea Eagles reins after Maguire pulled out of the race.

Maguire reportedly brushed the Manly deal over concerns over the club’s facilities.

Whoever takes over the reins faces a tough job revitalising a Manly side that finished second last this year with just seven wins.