Penrith Panthers five-eighth or halfback (as described by the outlets) Nathan Cleary says there is no certainty he will enter the free-agent market on 1 November. Multiple reports agree that he is not rushing to re-sign with the Panthers, and that his position leaves open the possibility of exploring options should he reach the free-agent deadline.
The outlets also report that any discussions about a new contract with Penrith will not begin until after the State of Origin period. Cleary’s comments indicate he is prioritising the representative season schedule first, and only then would he consider negotiations with the club.
While the reports concur on the timing and uncertainty around his status, they frame it as a decision not yet locked in rather than a confirmation of testing the market. The common thread is that 1 November is a key date, but the start of contract negotiations is contingent on the conclusion of State of Origin.
