Nathan Cleary has signed a deal with the Wests Tigers or sent a message to the Penrith Panthers regarding such a move. Nathan Cleary remains a key player for the Penrith Panthers, having secured multiple premierships with the team.
In contrast, Jarome Luai, Cleary’s long-time halves partner at the Panthers, announced in January 2024 that he would be joining the Wests Tigers on a five-year, $6 million deal starting in the 2025 season. This move marked the end of Luai’s tenure with the Panthers, during which he contributed to four consecutive NRL premierships. Luai’s departure was emotionally significant for both him and his teammates, including Cleary. After their final grand final victory together, Cleary expressed his desire to send Luai off on a high note, acknowledging his significant role in the team’s success.
Luai’s decision to leave was influenced by his ambition to step out of Cleary’s shadow and embrace a new challenge. He expressed a desire to showcase his abilities as a leading playmaker, a role he felt was limited at the Panthers due to Cleary’s prominence. Luai stated, “I was always the second fiddle guy, I was never going to be that guy. When this opportunity came up, this was a way to show people how good I can.
It’s important to note that while Luai has transitioned to the Wests Tigers, Nathan Cleary continues to be an integral part of the Penrith Panthers, with no current indications of a move to another club.
