Nathan Cleary to Warriors twist as GM drops huge hint

Nathan Cleary’s future has taken another twist, with the superstar set to make a big decision in the coming weeks.

Cleary has been linked with a sensational move away from the Panthers when his contract expires at the end of 2027, with the New Zealand Warriors and PNG Chiefs cited as possible destinations.

The Chiefs, who will join the NRL in 2028, have made six signings to date, with a seventh expected to be announced soon.

And the newest NRL club are expected to complete numerous signings from 1 November, when several stars, including Cleary, become available.

The Chiefs general manager of football, Michael Chammas, dropped a teasing graphic on social media about the club making their seventh signing.

He made reference to the 007 squad number still being available, but with a suggestion that it was reserved for a special player.

Chammas’ post came minutes after news broke that Nathan’s brother, Jett Cleary, had asked for an early release from his New Zealand Warriors contract.

It’s reported Jett wants to return to Sydney and sign for the Panthers ahead of his dad’s final year as head coach.

This added another dimension to this story. In a recent interview prior to Jett’s release request, Nathan was quizzed about linking up with his brother at the Wahs in the future.

“At the end of the day, even if the Warriors were an option, I’d be blocking my little brother’s pathway,” said Nathan. “I’m not too sure about that.”

Nathan’s unwillingness to compete with his brother, who also plays halfback, perhaps suggests that if Jett does sign for the Panthers, Nathan could depart to make way for him.

This would provide an opportunity for the Warriors and Chiefs to make a play for the biggest star in the NRL, with Chammas’ hint perhaps the biggest indication yet he could be headed for PNG.

A tax-free incentive to play for the newly formed side will give them an advantage over the Wahs.

The Chiefs have signed stars such as Brian To’o and Jarome Luai, and they will be hoping to add Cleary to the list.

But they will not have a free run at the NRL superstar, with Andrew Webster’s side having a real shot at bringing him back due to his ties to the club.

“I wasn’t born in Auckland, but I grew up a fair bit there,” Cleary added earlier last month. “I will admit I was a Warriors fan growing up.”

Cleary, 28, developed his rugby league skills in New Zealand while his father, Ivan, played for the club.

So should he depart the Panthers, it’s a choice between a club where there is a clear emotional connection, or the one that has more money.

Jett’s potential departure could lead Nathan back to the Wahs, but yesterday’s hint from Chammas could suggest they are already too late. Only time will tell.

READ MORE: Cleary drops bombshell release request to join NRL rivals