Nathan Cleary set to re-sign with Panthers after courtesy call to Chiefs

Nathan Cleary is expected to commit his long-term future to the Penrith Panthers after his management informed the PNG Chiefs that he would stay with the club. The star halfback's camp reportedly made a courtesy call to the expansion franchise to confirm he would not be joining them. Cleary is currently negotiating a potential two-year extension with Penrith that includes an additional two-season option in his favor.

The proposed deal is widely speculated to be worth at least $1.7 million per season, potentially making Cleary the highest-paid player in the NRL. The extension could keep the 28-year-old at Penrith until the end of 2031, marking his 16th top-flight campaign. Meanwhile, co-captain Isaah Yeo is also finalizing a three-year extension with the Panthers.