Papua New Guinea is preparing to make a landmark offer to Nathan Cleary in an effort to secure the Newcastle Chiefs star for their forthcoming entry into the National Rugby League (NRL) in 2028. The proposed deal, reportedly worth $1.5 million per season on a tax-free basis, could set a new record for player salaries in the league and pose a significant challenge for Cleary’s current club, the Penrith Panthers.
Cleary, a key figure in the Panthers’ recent success and a New South Wales State of Origin star, becomes a free agent when the signing window opens in November. While the Panthers are engaged in extension talks and remain optimistic about retaining the 26-year-old halfback, the Chiefs are prepared to offer a package reputedly around $6 million over four years, significantly above his current $1.3 million annual salary with Penrith. This figure represents roughly 10.8 percent of the Panthers’ existing salary cap, which is projected to rise to $15 million by 2028, potentially increasing Cleary’s market value to over $1.6 million per year within the salary cap framework.
The financial incentive is further bolstered by the tax-free nature of the Chiefs’ offer, which would enhance Cleary’s net earnings compared to what he would receive staying with Penrith. Analysts estimate that by moving to Papua New Guinea, Cleary could earn an additional $2.7 million after tax over the duration of the deal, with third-party endorsements potentially pushing his total benefits to as high as $10 million.
Key considerations for the Chiefs include reuniting Cleary with his former Panthers teammate Jarome Luai, PNG’s marquee signing, despite earlier reports suggesting Luai might have wanted to step out from Cleary’s shadow by leaving Penrith. Chiefs officials and Luai appear eager to revive the partnership, enhancing their scrumbase ahead of their anticipated NRL debut.
Other emerging players, such as Gold Coast Titans halfback Zane Harrison and Sydney Roosters’ Sam Walker, have also attracted interest from the Chiefs as they build a competitive squad. However, the potential Cleary-Luai combination remains central to PNG’s recruitment strategy.
PNG rugby league board member Marcus Bai has enthusiastically endorsed the possibility of Cleary joining the Chiefs, describing the player’s connection to PNG through his girlfriend, Mary Fowler, who has PNG heritage. Bai suggested that Cleary’s signing would have a profound national impact, turning him into a national hero and a unifying figure for the country’s sporting aspirations.
While the Panthers aim to keep Cleary as the cornerstone of their team, the Chiefs’ proposed bid underscores the intensifying competition for elite talent that will come with the expansion of the NRL into new markets. The coming months will reveal whether Cleary will remain at Penrith or become the face of rugby league in Papua New Guinea.