New franchises the Gold Coast and North Queensland can officially talk with off-contract players from today, and the demand for proven performers will be intense.

Twin brothers Joel and Adam Griffiths, captain Jade North and Socceroo goalkeeper Ante Covic head a list of eight Jets off contract at the end of the season, although Joel is set to put pen to paper on a new three-year deal tomorrow.

"I do not think anyone wants to leave," van Egmond said. "It is more a case of what we can afford and trying to stay within the cap.

"It is no secret that we work off the smallest budget [in the league]. We have to try and be as smart as we can with the money we have."

Gold Coast United announced yesterday they had signed former Juventus keeper Jess Vanstrattan for next season, which should increase the Jets' chances of retaining Covic.

North has been linked to North Queensland but is keen to move overseas and is unlikely to commit to an A-League club until after the European transfer window closes in January.

Adam Griffiths had started talks with the Jets but has since put them on hold.

"I just want to have a bit of time to think about what I want to do whether I stay in Australia or try and head back to Europe," Adam said.

"For now, I want to forget about contract talks and concentrate on doing well for the Jets. I don't want the season to slip away."

Gold Coast shake it up, Page 72