Cleary Considers Fast-Tracking Contract Talks Amidst Premiership Push
Penrith Panthers’ star playmaker, Nathan Cleary, has indicated a potential need to expedite contract negotiations, acknowledging that ongoing speculation about his future could become a significant distraction as the club chases further premiership glory. While currently contracted until the end of the 2027 season, the sheer volume of discussion surrounding his next career move has caught the 28-year-old by surprise.
Cleary’s current deal with the Panthers extends for another two years. However, he’s aware that if he remains unsigned as the 2027 finals series approaches, the rumour mill is likely to intensify, potentially impacting the team’s focus during their pursuit of a fifth premiership in six years. The Panthers organisation has reportedly initiated “Operation Keep Clearys,” a strategic effort to secure both Nathan and his father, head coach Ivan Cleary, before their contracts expire concurrently.
Nathan Cleary has previously expressed an open mind about his future, even admitting a willingness to consider a code switch to rugby. Just last month, he told this masthead, “I don’t want to make decisions about my future too quickly, or jump the gun on anything. I’m not closing any doors. I’m open to anything. I’m also very happy with where I’m at, I’m very happy with rugby league – it’s my passion – and I couldn’t see anything changing anytime soon.”
Shifting Stance on Contract Timelines
However, for the first time, Cleary has conceded that external pressures might necessitate an earlier resolution to his contract situation than he initially anticipated. The Panthers have enjoyed a blistering start to the current season, with Cleary’s attacking prowess being a standout feature. Following three consecutive victories, a substantial crowd exceeding 20,000 is expected at CommBank Stadium for Saturday evening’s clash against Parramatta, despite initial reports of sluggish ticket sales earlier in the week.
“It [the contract talk] has come pretty early so maybe it’s something that needs to be fast-tracked,” Cleary commented on Thursday. “We’ll see what happens. I’m still contracted here for two years, it feels like such a long time to me. Trying to imagine being somewhere else, it’s tough to think of.”
The Core of a Dynasty: Retaining Key Talent
The continued presence of Cleary at Penrith, coupled with the retention of key players whose contracts also expire at the end of 2027, would solidify the Panthers’ premiership window for years to come. This core group includes co-captain Isaah Yeo, representative winger Brian To’o, back-rower Liam Martin, and five-eighth Blaize Talagi.
Despite the allure of further success, Cleary stressed that continued premiership victories would not be the sole determinant in his decision-making process. “I don’t think about the accolades too much in terms of making decisions; [it is more to do with] my development as a player, my development as a person, and my development as a leader,” he explained. “I’ve always said a week is such a long time in rugby league, let alone a few months. You just don’t know what will happen.”
PNG Chiefs Interest and the Allure of the North
NRL newcomers, the PNG Chiefs, have publicly declared their interest in both Nathan and Ivan Cleary. While Ivan has reportedly ruled himself out of the coaching role, Nathan represents the calibre of player around whom a new franchise could be built. The Chiefs are positioned to potentially offer a more lucrative contract than any other NRL club, including the Panthers, thanks to favourable tax concessions. Furthermore, Cleary’s partner, the highly regarded Matildas star Mary Fowler, possesses Papua New Guinean heritage, adding another layer to the potential connection.
Cleary acknowledged having played in a NSW Cup trial match in Papua New Guinea a decade ago, describing it as a “good experience.” However, he reiterated that he has not given the PNG Chiefs any serious consideration at this stage.
Factors Behind Penrith’s Dominance
Penrith’s dominant start to the season, with convincing wins against reigning premiers Brisbane, Cronulla, and the Sydney Roosters, has been underpinned by a settled squad and a smoother pre-season preparation. Cleary highlighted these factors as crucial to the team’s current form.
“It helped in the pre-season not having to travel this year, we went to Manchester two years ago [for the World Club Challenge], then Vegas last year,” Cleary noted. “We also didn’t lose a big-name player for the first time in a while, and we’ve kept the same 17 we had through the finals series last year. That plays a big part. We just can’t fall in love with ourselves.”
Looking ahead to the clash with the Eels, Cleary expressed his anticipation for the No. 7 match-up against Mitchell Moses. Despite their defensive roles on opposite sides of the field, Cleary holds Moses in high regard, stating, “in my eyes, the premier halfback in the competition.”
