The development raised fears the Eels, already being investigated by head office for rorting the cap, may need to shed players if Hopoate was successful. However, an NRL spokesperson confirmed a damages payout wouldn't be included in the salary cap.

Two-year stint: Will Hopoate was below his best during his time at the Eels. Credit:Getty Images

Parramatta provided Hopoate's manager, Tyran Smith, with a contract offer on April 9 of last year, which was signed and returned to the club the following day, according to an amended statement of claim. Further, it states Hopoate signed and returned the offer the next day and that on April 16 the parties entered into an NRL contract.

"Clause 3.6 of the Contract provides that the Defendant must use its best endeavours to provide an opportunity for the Plaintiff to play in the NRL competition during the course of the contract," the SOC said.

In its defence statement, Parramatta concedes an offer was made to Smith, but claims that the "Unexecuted Agreement did not constitute a binding contractual agreement".