Nathan Cleary contract talks: Will he leave Penrith Panthers before 2027?

Nathan Cleary's contract with Penrith Panthers is worth $1.3 million per season until 2027. Reports suggest he might leave early for overseas opportunities.
By Newsroom | Sports, Rugby League |

The prolonged speculation surrounding rugby league superstar Nathan Cleary's future has intensified, with multiple reports indicating a potential move away from the NRL. Contracted with the Penrith Panthers until the end of 2027, Cleary's current deal, reportedly worth $1.3 million per season, is a significant factor in discussions about his next career phase. The narrative driving these discussions hinges on a confluence of factors: a desire for new challenges, the lure of potentially greater financial rewards overseas, and, crucially, his relationship with Manchester City and Matildas star Mary Fowler, who has expressed no immediate plans to return to Australia.

Overseas Prospects and Code-Switching Whispers

The prospect of Cleary venturing north, either to the English Super League or potentially switching codes to rugby union, has become a persistent theme. Rugby union, particularly in the UK, is noted for offering considerably higher remuneration than rugby league. This financial incentive, coupled with the established success of Cleary's career—four premierships, Origin representation, and a World Cup—suggests he may be at a point where external opportunities could hold significant appeal. While a move to union would necessitate adapting to different game mechanics, such as avoiding rucks and focusing on kicking, figures within the sport, including incoming Wallabies coach Les Kiss and legend Tim Horan, have publicly posited that Cleary possesses the attributes to succeed.

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Shifting Dynamics and the Role of Personal Life

Beyond the financial and sporting considerations, Cleary's personal life appears to be a central pillar in the speculation. His relationship with Mary Fowler is frequently cited as a primary driver for a potential relocation. Fowler's commitment to her football career in England, making an Australian return unlikely in the near future, frames Cleary's decisions through the lens of their shared life. This dynamic introduces an emotional dimension to professional career calculations, with some commentators suggesting that "love might win out."

From NRL Royalty to Uncharted Territory

Cleary, often described as an "Immortal in waiting," has achieved virtually every accolade possible within the 13-man game at club, state, and international levels. His current contract with the Penrith Panthers runs until the end of the 2027 NRL season, with his father and coach, Ivan Cleary, also off-contract at the same time. Despite these contractual commitments, Cleary has reportedly expressed being "quite open" to exploring different avenues, leaving the door ajar for a departure before his current deal concludes. However, Ivan Cleary has also been quoted as emphatically dismissing suggestions that his son might leave his contract early.

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Anointed Successor and Systemic Critiques

Amidst the conjecture about Cleary's personal trajectory, broader discussions within the NRL continue. Rugby league identity Andrew "Joey" Johns has identified Sunia Katoa as the likely successor to the NSW Blues' No. 7 jersey, predicting a significant tenure for him. Johns also advised Cleary to manage his workload and adapt his tactical approach for teammates who may not possess his game-reading acuity. Concurrently, coach Des Hasler has reignited debates about officiating, advocating for the reinstatement of a two-referee system and suggesting a redefined role for the Bunker, empowering on-field officials with final try-awarding decisions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the latest news on Nathan Cleary's contract with the Penrith Panthers?
Nathan Cleary's contract with the Penrith Panthers runs until the end of the 2027 NRL season and is reportedly worth $1.3 million per season. There is ongoing speculation about his future with the club.
Q: Could Nathan Cleary leave the Penrith Panthers before his contract ends in 2027?
Reports suggest Nathan Cleary is open to exploring different career avenues, potentially overseas, even before his current deal concludes. However, his father and coach, Ivan Cleary, has dismissed suggestions of an early departure.
Q: What are the reasons behind the speculation about Nathan Cleary's future?
Speculation is driven by a desire for new challenges, potential higher earnings overseas, and his relationship with Mary Fowler, who is based in England and unlikely to return to Australia soon.
Q: Are there any rugby union opportunities for Nathan Cleary?
Rugby union, especially in the UK, is mentioned as a possibility with higher pay than rugby league. Figures like Les Kiss and Tim Horan believe Cleary has the skills to succeed in union.
Q: What is Nathan Cleary's current career status and achievements?
Cleary is a highly decorated player, having won four premierships, represented New South Wales in Origin, and played for Australia in a World Cup. He is considered a top player in rugby league.