Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
The rugby league community is reacting to a massive report suggesting that Nathan Cleary Penrith Panthers halfback may test his value on the open market. While the three-time premiership winner is currently tied to the club until the end of the 2027 season, he will be eligible to talk to rival teams starting November 1. This development comes as a shock to many who expected the star to remain a one-club man for his entire career. Seeing the face of the modern dynasty in another jersey remains a difficult thought for the faithful fans at Penrith.
Code Sports journalist Brent Read recently shared that those close to the superstar expect him to look at his options when the window opens. This does not necessarily mean he has plans to walk away from the western Sydney powerhouse. The move appears to be a way for the playmaker to understand his standing in the global sports arena after years of total dominance. He has achieved almost everything possible in the game at a very young age.
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A Potential Record Breaking Contract
The financial side of any potential move would likely break every existing record in the National Rugby League. Currently, Kalyn Ponga of the Newcastle Knights is considered the top earner with a deal worth approximately $1.4 million per year. Many analysts believe the Penrith Panthers captain would easily surpass that figure if he decided to entertain offers from elsewhere. Some suggest his market price could even reach the elusive $2 million mark.
“He’d be the first $2 million player. If he left Penrith, someone would pay him $2 million,” Michael Carayannis said during a recent broadcast. Brent Read supported this view, noting that the halfback would be the closest the game has ever seen to that level of pay. Nathan Cleary himself has mentioned he is in no rush to make a final call on his long term future. This patient approach has sparked plenty of conversation among the rival clubs looking for a world class leader.
The Challenge of a New Environment
Rugby league legend Gorden Tallis believes the star would be making a smart move by seeing what other opportunities exist. He noted that while there is a very high chance he stays put, the lure of a new challenge is always present. Winning a title at a different club could solidify his legacy as one of the greatest of all time. Tallis mentioned that after winning so much at one place, a player naturally wonders if they can repeat that success elsewhere.
“It’s probably a 90% chance that he’s going to stay there but he’d be crazy to not see the other options given all he’s achieved and there might be a part of him that goes why can’t I try and win somewhere else,” Tallis explained. Nathan Cleary has also kept the door open for other codes, which adds another layer of intrigue to the situation. His kicking game and game management would be highly sought after in rugby union circles as well. You can track all the latest player movements and ladder positions on the Official NRL Website.
Salary Cap Pressure at Penrith Panthers
The Penrith Panthers are facing a massive battle to keep their championship winning roster together beyond the next few seasons. It is not just the halfback who is nearing the end of a deal, as ten other players will become free agents at the same time. This list includes representative stars like Isaah Yeo, Brian To’o, and Liam Martin. The club has already seen several key figures depart due to the pressure of the salary cap in recent years.
“There’s no way Penrith will be keeping all of those players,” Braith Anasta commented while discussing the roster depth. Other players like Moses Leota and Mitch Kenny have been loyal but may now look to maximize their earnings. The club has already confirmed that Liam Henry and Scott Sorensen are heading to Perth at the conclusion of the year. This constant turnover makes the task of maintaining a winning culture even more difficult for the coaching staff.