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Penrith is preparing to table a monster contract offer to Nathan Cleary and his father, Ivan, according to journalist Michael Chammas.
Chammas broke the news to Nine’s Sunday NRL coverage.
Cleary, the Panthers’ halfback and captain, is currently contracted until the end of 2024.
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According to Chammas, Penrith is set to offer him a long-term deal worth $1.1 million a season, which will see the 24-year-old contracted until he is at least 30 years old.
They also want his father, Ivan, to extend his coaching contract with the club.
With one year remaining on his current agreement, it is reported the club is discussing another two or three years on top of the existing deal.
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“They want to make Nathan Cleary a Panther for life,” Chammas said.
Andrew Johns and Billy Slater believe it’s a smart move by the Panthers.
“If you look at Penrith, the way they are being run off the field, they will be at the top for however long Nathan is there,” Johns said during Nine’s coverage.
“It’s hard to put into words, I’ve dreamed of this moment since I was a little kid,” Cleary said.
Ivan added: “It’s hard to put into words… I coach him every day, but when it’s your son, it’s a dream.
“I couldn’t have written that story, it’s pretty cool.” (Getty)
“I think it’s a really smart move. He’s probably the most influential player in the competition.”
Slater agreed.
“He should never play for anyone else, he is a Panther,” he said.
“He came through that (junior) system so If he wants to stay there, he should stay there.
“I’m glad they are trying to lock him up.”
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