Nathan Cleary’s future with the Penrith Panthers has been a topic of discussion in recent weeks, with the star halfback yet to agree to a new contract. Despite being in talks with the Panthers since March 2025, a deal remains elusive, sparking concerns that Cleary could potentially leave the club this summer ¹.

However, reports suggest that Cleary has already agreed to a contract extension with the Panthers. According to sources, the deal is worth $38.4 million over three years, keeping Cleary at the club until the end of the 2027 NRL season ².

Cleary’s decision to stay with the Panthers is a significant boost for the club, which has built a strong team around the talented halfback. The 26-year-old has been instrumental in the Panthers’ success in recent years, leading the team to multiple premierships and earning individual accolades along the way ³.

The Panthers’ coach, Ivan Cleary, who is also Nathan’s father, praised his son’s leadership and work ethic. “Nathan has been the cornerstone of our success, and his dedication both on and off the field sets a standard for everyone at the club,” he said ².

While the news of Cleary’s contract extension is a welcome relief for Panthers fans, the club’s salary cap situation remains a challenge. The Panthers have had to make some tough decisions to accommodate Cleary’s new deal, including releasing several veteran players ⁴.

Despite these challenges, the Panthers are confident that they can maintain their position as a top team in the NRL. With Cleary leading the charge, the club is well-placed to continue its winning ways and make another deep run in the playoffs.

In other news, the Panthers have also been linked to several high-profile players, including some big-name forwards. While nothing has been confirmed, the club’s recruitment efforts are expected to heat up in the coming weeks as they look to bolster their squad for the 2026 season ⁴.

Overall, the news of Nathan Cleary’s contract extension is a major coup for the Penrith Panthers. With their star halfback locked in for the next three years, the club is well-placed to continue its dominance in the NRL.

*Key Takeaways:*

– *Nathan Cleary’s Contract Extension:* The star halfback has agreed to a three-year, $38.4 million contract extension with the Penrith Panthers ².
– *Panthers’ Salary Cap Situation:* The club has had to make some tough decisions to accommodate Cleary’s new deal, including releasing several veteran players ⁴.
– *Recruitment Efforts:* The Panthers are expected to continue their recruitment efforts in the coming weeks as they look to bolster their squad for the 2026 season ⁴.