​Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.​

Moses Leota says he can "100 per cent" see himself finishing his NRL career with the Penrith Panthers despite exploring his options ahead of the next transfer window. The four time premiership winning prop has been granted permission by the Panthers to gauge his market value before November 1, with several rival clubs monitoring his situation as Penrith manages future salary cap pressures.

Leota remains contracted until the end of the 2027 season but acknowledged his manager is assessing opportunities before contract discussions resume with the Panthers.

Leota still sees long term future at Penrith

The veteran front rower stressed he remains happy at the Panthers despite recent speculation surrounding his future.

"It is just to see what is out there and then obviously come back to the club and we will sort it out that way," Leota said.

"I am happy at Penrith. My manager has got a job to do and I leave it up to him."

Leota also reaffirmed his desire to remain with the club beyond his current deal.

"One hundred per cent I can see myself remaining at the club."

However, he admitted family considerations and financial security will be important factors when deciding on his next contract.

Panthers balancing salary cap pressures

Penrith is understood to be keen to retain Leota but faces significant salary cap challenges over the coming seasons.

A host of star players are also due to come off contract at the end of 2027, including co captains Nathan Cleary and Isaah Yeo, representative forwards Liam Martin and Brian To'o, along with Blaize Talagi, Isaiah Papali'i and Paul Alamoti.

Those negotiations are expected to shape the club's long term roster planning as the Panthers attempt to keep the core of their premiership winning squad together.

Ivan Cleary confirms temporary permission

Panthers coach Ivan Cleary recently confirmed the club had allowed Leota to speak with rival teams for a limited period.

"I think everyone knows the story," Cleary said.

"He has earned the right to look around."

According to reports, Leota has until Wednesday to explore the market before the temporary window closes ahead of the official November 1 transfer period.

Cleary expects Leota to return to the Panthers with a clearer understanding of his market value before further negotiations continue.

Rival clubs monitoring experienced prop

Former Panthers hooker Michael Ennis believes Leota deserves the opportunity to test his value after playing a key role throughout Penrith's premiership dynasty.

Ennis argued Leota has often been overlooked compared with teammates such as Nathan Cleary, Isaah Yeo and James Fisher Harris despite his consistent performances in big matches.

He identified Parramatta, Canterbury, the incoming Perth Bears and Papua New Guinea's future franchise as clubs that could benefit from signing an experienced front rower.

However, reports suggest the list of potential suitors has already narrowed.

Cronulla, Newcastle and the New Zealand Warriors are reportedly not pursuing Leota, while Parramatta has also cooled its interest after initially monitoring the situation.

Key decision still to come

Leota remains one of the most respected middle forwards in the NRL after helping Penrith win four premierships.

Whether he ultimately remains at the foot of the mountains or accepts a new opportunity elsewhere will become one of the competition's major contract storylines heading toward the November 1 negotiating period.

For now, the 30 year old insists his priority remains performing for the Panthers while his management handles discussions away from the field.