The Sharks are on the verge of luring Matt Moylan to Cronulla on a four-year $3.6 million contract, but the deal could hinge on a player swap with James Maloney going to the Panthers.

Cronulla and the Wests Tigers have tabled offers to Moylan, but the 26-year-old's preference to play in the halves has the Sharks in the box seat should Penrith agree to a release that could be requested this week.

Switching jerseys: Matt Moylan and James Maloney could be part of a player swap deal to get Moylan to Cronulla. Credit:NRL Imagery

Fairfax Media understands the Panthers are reluctant to agree to a release unless it is on their terms and won't contemplate letting Moylan out of the next four years of his contract without something in return.

That something is Maloney – an experienced playmaker they believe will be the ideal sounding board for teenager Nathan Cleary in his development.