Canberra aims to retain key players Smithies and Nicholson, countering Perth Bears' interest ahead of 2027.
Canberra have stepped up their bid to keep their table-topping side together after offering an extension to Morgan Smithies and holding talks with fellow Englishman Matty Nicholson.
It is understood the Raiders are also exploring the prospect of retaining Ata Mariota, who like Smithies and Nicholson is off contract at the end of next season.
All three shape as ideal targets for the Perth Bears as they prepare to enter the NRL in 2027 under the coaching of Mal Meninga, a man who knows the Raiders as well as anyone.
However, Canberra has moved to stave off a Meninga-inspired West Australian poaching raid by holding initial talks over long-term extensions for both Smithies and Nicholson.