Cleary puts contract talks on hold as he focuses on recovery from horror injury

Nathan Cleary has placed contract negotiations on hold to prioritize his recovery from two separate surgeries. The Penrith Panthers halfback suffered a double compound fracture to his left leg alongside a broken right foot during the preliminary final loss to the Knights. Although his management informed Penrith of his financial valuation, Cleary is in no rush to negotiate and remains focused on returning for round one of the 2027 NRL season.

The delay means Cleary will likely become an official free agent after November 1, opening up potential interest from rival clubs. Meanwhile, Penrith continues contract discussions with teammates Isaah Yeo, Liam Martin, and Moses Leota. Cleary also publicly expressed gratitude to his partner, soccer player Mary Fowler, who flew to Sydney from England to support him during his initial recovery.