Cronulla Sharks skipper Paul Gallen invested in a property with a director of a company that became a major team sponsor months later, but club officials are confident his dealings will escape censure by an NRL investigation into salary cap breaches.

When contacted by the Herald, Cronulla Sharks chief executive Barry Russell said he was unaware of Gallen’s investments with the director of a major sponsor. However, he said it was Gallen's business and that probably “wouldn’t have any relevance” to salary cap rules.

Sharks veteran Paul Gallen. Credit:AAP

The investment, which Gallen cashed in shortly after the Sharks sponsorship deal ended, raises questions about whether he should have disclosed the arrangement to his club. Players are not allowed to receive a financial benefit from club sponsors.

In January 2016, Gallen bought a half-share in an investment property in regional NSW owned by a company called Pro5per Investments.