The Possibility of Nathan Cleary Leaving Penrith Panthers
There is currently no doubt that Nathan Cleary, the star halfback for the Penrith Panthers, may not be staying with the club beyond the end of 2027. While it’s not certain he will leave, several factors suggest that a departure is not out of the question. His father, Ivan, has stepped down as a coach, and Nathan has expressed interest in exploring other opportunities. Additionally, his fiancée lives abroad, the Panthers’ salary cap is tight, and there may be a desire for new challenges.
Coincidence or not, the timing of these events aligns closely. Nathan has been discussing the possibility of becoming an unrestricted free agent for several months, which coincides with his father’s decision to stop coaching. This alignment suggests that the situation is more than just a coincidence.
If Cleary does decide to move on, there are several clubs that could potentially pursue him. Here are some of the most likely options:
Wests Tigers
If Cleary wants to stay in Sydney, the Wests Tigers could be a strong contender. They have financial resources available, and the departure of Jarome Luai could create an opening. The team has several promising halfbacks, including Adam Doueihi, Latu Fainu, and Javon Andrews. However, Cleary’s arrival would require a significant investment, making it a challenging but not impossible scenario.
Sydney Roosters
The Sydney Roosters are known for their connections with high-profile players, and Cleary is now one of them. Although it might seem like a bold move, a potential transfer to the Roosters could be mutually beneficial. Cleary’s contract expiry aligns with Sam Walker’s, and while the Roosters may not be as committed to Walker as before, they are reportedly considering other options, such as Herbie Farnworth at the Dolphins.
Perth Bears
The Perth Bears are set to enter the competition in 2027, but they need to build a competitive roster. While they have signed Jamie Humphreys, he is not in the same league as Cleary. The Bears have the financial means to attract top talent, and if they can secure Cleary, it could be a major boost for the team.
European Rugby Union
Cleary has previously mentioned his interest in playing rugby union. With his contract expiring and his partner living in Europe, this could be an appealing option. A new World Cup cycle could also provide an opportunity for Cleary to transition to rugby union, where he could earn substantial income.
Canterbury Bulldogs
The Canterbury Bulldogs are in a transitional phase, and their attacking play has been inconsistent. If they want to bring in Cleary, they would need to manage their salary cap carefully. Players like Matt Burton and Mitchell Woods are on contracts, but there is potential for reshaping the team if they are willing to invest.
English Super League
Another potential destination for Cleary is the English Super League. The NRL is considering investing in the competition, and a signing of Cleary would be a huge draw. If the ARLC and NRL support such a move, Cleary could receive significant financial incentives to make the switch.
New Zealand Warriors
While it may seem unlikely, the idea of Cleary joining the New Zealand Warriors has been discussed. The Warriors are re-signing Tanah Boyd, and Cleary’s connection to New Zealand could make this a compelling option. If he were to join, he could become a national hero by leading the team to its first premiership.
PNG Chiefs
The PNG Chiefs may have the best chance of securing Cleary among NRL clubs. Although they operate under the same salary cap, they could offer a competitive deal, possibly around $1.2 million. Cleary could also reunite with Jarome Luai, who he won four premierships with at the Panthers. This move would be worth watching closely.
Conclusion
Nathan Cleary’s future remains uncertain, but the possibilities are numerous. Whether he stays with the Panthers or moves to another club, his decision will have a significant impact on the rugby league landscape. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see where he ends up.
