Nathan Cleary tipped to sensationally quit the NRL
Penrith superstar Nathan Cleary has been tipped to leave the Panthers in a move that would send shockwaves through the NRL.
NRL Immortal Andrew Johns believes Nathan Cleary will leave the NRL if he finally “owns” a State of Origin series, stating it is the final thing he is yet to achieve.
The champion halfback is contracted to Penrith until the end of 2027. But after his father and coach, Ivan, announced next year will be his last at the helm of the Panthers, there has been speculation that Nathan may follow him out the door.
The Papua New Guinea Chiefs have been floated as a potential destination, with the lure of tax-free income.
However, there is a rumour circulating that Nathan has reportedly been offered 2 million pounds ($3.75m) a year to play in the Super League over in the UK.
Not only is that more than he could earn at PNG even after tax, it would also allow him to be close to his long-distance partner, Mary Fowler, who plays for English club Manchester City.
And Johns believes Cleary will be Super League bound if he leads the Blues to a State of Origin shield.
“I think there would be more interest to go to England. Whether there’s an option in rugby union in Europe, or playing in the Super League over there,” Johns said on Nine’s Immortal Behaviour.
Nathan Cleary has been tipped to leave Penrith. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)
“I know my mate Simon Moran from Warrington, who owns Warrington, would move heaven and earth and hell to get Nathan there.
“He’s done everything here, we know that. And this year if he owns Origin, then that is ticked off. We will soon see.”
Cleary has played 17 Origin games for NSW since debuting in 2018, but he has failed to really stamp himself on the games, with the Blues losing more games than they have won with him in the No. 7 jersey.
In 2019 the Blues won the series decider without Cleary, and also won in 2024 in his absence.
The only other thing he hasn’t yet achieved is a Dally M, but he is currently seven points clear atop the standings in 2027.
If he remains fit, it appears he can tick that off as well.
Ivan Cleary (right) announced he will leave his head coaching role at Penrith at the end of next season. (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)
So, with a new era coming at Penrith under Peter Wallace in 2028, Cleary may opt to make the switch to the Super League for a new challenge and to be closer to Fowler.
And it is something he has previously hinted he would strongly consider.
“I’m not against it (a Super League move). I have a pretty open mind to that kind of stuff,” Cleary previously told UK outlet The Mirror.
“I think just being able to experience different cultures and different experiences is something I enjoy doing. I’m not closed off to that idea.”
He also spoke highly of his time in the UK for the World Cup.
The 26-year-old has loved being back in the city and being closer to Fowler.
“I was lucky enough to spend almost two months in Manchester for the World Cup and really enjoyed it,” Cleary said.
“I’m lucky enough to know a bit about the town now and know where everything is so it’s good to be back. I actually really like just being able to wander around the streets, and no one knows who you are. I think I’ve only been recognised once. It’s a nice change (to Sydney).”
Source: https://www.news.com.au/sport/nrl/nathan-cleary-tipped-to-sensationally-quit-the-nrl/news-story/0e92b37eef455cb7d4008c91d38a6923
