The Penrith Panthers have decisively dismissed swirling speculation linking star halfback Nathan Cleary with a shock code switch to rugby union, affirming the playmaker’s unwavering loyalty to the NRL club.
Rumours resurfaced this week after Wallabies World Cup winner Tim Horan suggested a potential cross-code move by Cleary could be on the cards. However, the Panthers have responded with an emphatic denial, making it clear that no such scenario is under consideration.
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Speaking to Code Sports, a Panthers official categorically ruled out any early exit or rugby union switch for the premiership-winning playmaker. “This isn’t a Lachlan Galvin circus,” the source said, referring to the young Wests Tigers talent recently caught in a media frenzy over his club future.
“Nathan is an honourable and loyal person. Any suggestion of an early release is ridiculous. It isn’t in Nathan’s DNA—it’s not who he is.”
Cleary remains under contract with Penrith until the end of the 2027 NRL season, and the club is adamant he will honour that commitment.
Panthers deputy chairman Greg Alexander echoed that sentiment, reiterating how deeply Cleary is tied to the club’s culture and legacy.
“I would be surprised if Nathan went to rugby union,” Alexander said. “He is such a Penrith Panthers boy. I’d hate to think he’d play anywhere else—especially not another code. There’s been no talk, no interest raised, and I haven’t spoken to Nathan about it because there’s nothing to discuss.”
The speculation also extended to a potential Super League move, with suggestions that Cleary might consider relocating to Europe to be closer to his partner, Matildas star Mary Fowler, who plays for Manchester City. However, no such plans are on the table, and the Panthers remain confident that Cleary’s future lies firmly in western Sydney.
Despite the media buzz, all signs point to the Panthers’ co-captain staying put—continuing to lead the reigning NRL champions and potentially extending his legacy as one of the club’s greatest-ever players.
