Nathan Cleary Set To Sign New Long Term Deal With Panthers
Nathan Cleary Commits To Future At Penrith
The Penrith Panthers are preparing for a significant retention success as Nathan Cleary is expected to agree to a new long-term contract. Despite previous speculation regarding lucrative tax-free offers from the PNG Chiefs, reports indicate that Cleary prefers to remain with the club. While an injury suffered during the preliminary final loss delayed the timing of the agreement, the halfback is now anticipated to sign a deal that will eventually be worth $1.7 million per season, contingent upon expected salary cap increases.
Cleary’s decision follows a similar move by Isaah Yeo, who reportedly agreed to terms with the club last month, although an official announcement has not yet been made. The retention of these two core players underscores the club’s commitment to maintaining its competitive edge, even as it navigates the complexities of a stretched salary cap. This strategic focus on key leadership ensures the team remains stable during a period of transition.
Roster Shifts And Salary Cap Pressures
As the club secures its primary stars, other key positions are facing uncertainty. The Panthers are expected to offer Moses Leota a new contract within the coming week. Leota’s manager, Gavin Orr, confirmed that the club has expressed its intent to make an offer. While Leota prefers to stay, his representation has been exploring the market since June to evaluate other options and properly explore the available market.
The likelihood of Leota receiving a new deal, combined with the high-value contracts for Cleary and Yeo, suggests that Liam Martin may depart the club. Martin, who is off-contract at the end of 2027, has expressed interest in a move, citing his roots in Temora. Given the financial constraints of the salary cap, it appears unlikely that Martin will remain in the squad if the other retentions proceed as planned. Martin’s admission of interest came while he was at the Kangaroos camp ahead of a Rugby League World Cup semi-final against Samoa.
Other players are also facing uncertain futures. Isaiah Papali’i is currently off-contract, and several fringe players are expected to move on. Luron Patea is considered more likely to leave than stay, and the club is anticipated to allow Blaize Talagi to depart, potentially before the start of 2027.
Coaching Transitions And Personal Factors
Adding to the organizational changes is the announcement that Ivan Cleary will step down as head coach at the conclusion of the 2027 season. Peter Wallace is set to succeed him in the top role. While some suggested that Wallace’s appointment might accelerate Nathan Cleary’s decision regarding his future, the player has clarified that he is sticking to his own timeline. Cleary expressed deep respect for Wallace as a former teammate and leader, noting his toughness and the way he played the game, but emphasized that the coaching change does not alter his current decision-making process over the next six to eight weeks.
Cleary has noted that his father’s decision to retire from coaching after 35 years in the league is a positive step for his family. He specifically mentioned that this move would lift a weight off the shoulders of both his father and his mother, Bec, who has navigated the highs and lows of the professional game alongside Ivan. He expressed pride in his father’s decision to prioritize a stress-free life that does not revolve around the week-in, week-out season.
Speculation has also surfaced regarding a potential move to England to be closer to his partner, Matildas star Mary Fowler. While Cleary acknowledged that he will have conversations with her about their future, he stated that no such move has been initiated. For now, the focus remains on his commitment to the Panthers and the ongoing efforts to balance the roster under strict financial limits. The club continues to prioritize its core leadership while preparing for a transition in both the playing squad and the coaching staff over the next few seasons.