Several clubs budgeted for a $10 million cap next season but have since been told by the NRL $9.1 million is the safe figure to ensure teams are not sanctioned.

The Bulldogs and Raiders are reportedly well over for next year after securing their rosters for 2018 before the NRL agreed to an approximate figure just a couple of months ago.

It means those clubs could now be penalised for getting their house in order early.

It has been revealed Canterbury could miss out on marquee signings Aaron Woods and Kieran Foran on the back of the NRL dragging its heels in deciding on a solid cap amount.

In contrast, those clubs who were not proactive now have a bargaining advantage as the clubs in question attempt to offload players to get under the cap.

To be as much as $900,000 over the cap equates to one star squad member or as many as five fringe players.

Bulldogs winger Brett Morris is being scouted by English Super League clubs with teammate Greg Eastwood set to be collateral damage and shown the door.

Canterbury have been in contact with the NRL and outlined a plan they believe could get them under the cap with rival clubs waiting in the wings to pounce on any potential bargain.

In contrast, Manly are currently playing at $1.2 million under the cap with the Sea Eagles still paying injured stars Brett Stewart and Steve Matai in back-ended deals.

Manly are believed to be positioning themselves to purchase at least two marquee players for next year.