They have been the second-best NRL team for two years now but Manly want to be No.1 when it comes to corporate backing.

While the Sea Eagles are two wins from claiming the premiership and top NRL status the club is looking for a new major sponsor after co-owner Max Delmege withdrew his $1 million a year investment.

But rather than a negative pull out, this is a strategic move by the club to find a new company willing to pay more money to be associated with one of the NRL's best-performed sides and noted cleanskins.

In the wake of off-field drama surrounding top-flight clubs Cronulla and Brisbane, Manly are ideally placed to capitalise on their hard-earned reputation.

The Sea Eagles had more live free-to-air games in 2008 than any other Sydney club, have placed second in the minor premiership two years running, have roster stability and coach Des Hasler locked in until 2010 and don't generate negative press from misbehaving players.

There has never been a better time to sell the Manly brand and club boss Grant Mayer says the Sea Eagles want to join South Sydney in earning over $1 million from naming-rights sponsors, even if it means splitting home and away sponsorships.

"The million-dollar price tag is something we think is realistic and achievable," said Mayer.

"The reason we have gone now is because with four clubs after this weekend remaining our profile will never be higher.

"To go out now we will flush out as much interest as we possibly can.

"These things can take months and we are realistic about that and won't rush into it.

"We are going to be flexible ... we may look at doing what Souths have done too in splitting home and away jerseys.

"You have to be creative and tailor-make the package to what a sponsor wants."

Mayer said with upgrades to Brookvale Oval due to begin next year and club co-owners Delmege and the Penn family now in control of the Leagues club the Sea Eagles are moving ahead.

Ideally Manly would like an international company as major sponsor, but they're happy to be associated with another local businessman like Delmege if the price is right.

"We would never say no to an existing sponsor to upgrade but I think the best opportunity for us now is to look outside the current family," Mayer said.

"Being naming rights sponsor of an NRL club doesn't come along too often ... the strength of our club just continues to grow and there's a perfect opportunity for someone to join the family.

"It would be nice to be partnered with an international brand to give us international exposure. But that said if there's a local brand that wants to be involved as a launch strategy we're certainly keen to be involved there."

But if Manly fails to find someone willing to pay top dollar Delmege said he would happily continue with his current arrangement.

"I will just continue on, there is no question. The club will not be affected at all," said Delmege.

"It is just the perfect time to offer it to the market and see if there is somebody out there willing to pay more money."

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP