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Penrith’s signing of teenage half Remy Cross highlights long-term planning as Nathan Cleary’s future remains unresolved.
Penrith Panthers have moved to secure a promising junior halfback, signing teenage playmaker Remy Cross as part of their long-term planning.
The 14-year-old, who has represented the NSW Waratahs at junior level, has been playing both rugby league and union. Penrith's decision to bring him into their system is seen as an effort to retain emerging talent within the code, with Cross expected to feature in the Harold Matthews Cup next season.
While the move reflects the club's ongoing investment in youth development, it has also prompted questions about succession planning around Nathan Cleary. The Panthers' premiership-winning halfback is off contract at the end of 2027 and will be eligible to negotiate with rival clubs from November 1 if a new deal is not reached.
Cleary has indicated he is open to exploring his options, although he has spent his entire NRL career at Penrith. Reports suggest he could command offers approaching $2 million per season on the open market.
In response, the Panthers have strengthened their junior ranks, with Cross joining a group of young halves that includes Keahn Skipps, Haami Loza and Elijah Birve, all recruited over the past year.
Whether the latest signing is directly linked to Cleary's contract situation remains unclear. However, the club's approach suggests a focus on maintaining depth in key positions regardless of future decisions at the top level.
Former NRL player Justin Horo suggested Cleary's future may not be determined solely by financial factors, pointing to the possibility of a move overseas as a longer-term consideration.
For now, Penrith's priority remains securing their star halfback while continuing to build a pipeline of emerging talent to sustain success.