In a seismic move that shakes the rugby league world, superstar halfback Nathan Cleary has officially signed a historic four-year contract extension with the Penrith Panthers worth a jaw-dropping $100 million. The deal, announced earlier today, is the largest in NRL history, cementing Cleary’s status as not only the face of the Panthers but of the sport itself.
Cleary, 27, has been the backbone of Penrith’s dominance in recent years, guiding the club to multiple premierships and setting new benchmarks for playmaking excellence. His new contract, which will keep him in Penrith colors through the 2029 season, represents both a reward for past glories and a massive investment in the future of the club.
“This is home,” Cleary said during the press conference. “Penrith means everything to me it’s where I grew up, it’s where I became a footballer, and it’s where I want to finish my career. I’m grateful to the club, my teammates, and the fans for their unwavering support.”
The deal reportedly includes performance bonuses, ambassadorial commitments, and long-term brand partnerships, bringing its total value to the $100 million mark. While it far exceeds any previous NRL salary agreement, Panthers CEO Matt Cameron defended the decision, calling Cleary a “once-in-a-generation player.”
“You don’t just build a team around a player like Nathan you build a culture,” Cameron stated. “He’s not just our captain on the field, he’s a leader off it. His commitment to excellence is unmatched, and we believe he’s worth every cent.”
Cleary’s new deal comes amidst speculation of overseas interest from rugby union clubs and potential American suitors looking to lure him with cross-code opportunities. But the Panthers have now slammed that door shut and in spectacular fashion.
Fans across the NRL have taken to social media to react, with hashtags like #Cleary100M and #PantherForLife trending nationally within hours. While some rival club supporters have raised eyebrows at the scale of the contract, Penrith fans are rejoicing at the reassurance that their talisman isn’t going anywhere.
With this blockbuster extension, the Panthers have not only locked in their playmaker but have made a bold statement about their intentions to remain a powerhouse in the years ahead.
One thing is certain Nathan Cleary is all in on Penrith, and Penrith is all in on Nathan Cleary.
Stay tuned for exclusive player reactions, expert analysis, and what this means for the NRL salary landscape going forward.
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