Sharks waiting on Lam signature

Cronulla Sharks CEO Steve Rogers says the chances of Adrian Lam joining the NRL side are "looking positive", but faces an anxious wait for the signature of the former Queensland Origin star.

The Sharks have offered Lam a two-year deal to entice him to the club, but won't get "absolute confirmation" until he gets a release from his coaching commitments from ESL side Wigan.

Lam is understood to be on a handshake deal to coach Wigan's under-21 squad and will not join the Sharks unless he has the blessing of Warriors boss Maurice Lindsay.

"Things are looking positive but we haven't had absolute confirmation," Sharks CEO Steve Rogers said.

"At this stage it's more that he has to resolve some issues in the UK.

"Once he's had those discussion with Maurice Lindsay and he's comfortable with what he's doing hopefully we'll get the decision we're looking for.

"All I can say at this stage is things are looking positive."

The Sharks, who are looking for a replacement after assistant coach Peter Gentle joined premiers Wests Tigers' coaching staff, were hoping for a final answer today but may be forced to wait until Lam and Lindsay resolve the issue at their end.

Rogers said the retired Maroons halfback impressed Sharks coach Stuart Raper with his football brain as a player when the two were at Wigan in the English Super League.

"Stuart coached him and Stuart rates him very highly, so tactically he is very astute," Rogers said.

"Since he's moved into the coaching ranks he's been very highly regarded, both over there and over here.

"There's some other clubs over here interested in gaining his services at some stage in the future, with the Roosters the most prominent."