November 4, 2026 — 10:34pm

Nathan Cleary is expected to pledge his future to the Penrith Panthers after his management politely informed the PNG Chiefs late Wednesday the star halfback would be staying put.

Cleary’s contract has been the biggest story in rugby league all year, with fears he could be tempted to accept the tax-free dollars in Port Moresby if allowed to hit the open market on November 1.

The NRL’s 18th franchise had made it clear they were prepared to pay top dollar for a halfback to make them an instant success.

But on the same day Chiefs officials were photographed arriving in the nation with Canberra forward Hudson Young , sources with knowledge of the situation not authorised to speak publicly confirmed Cleary’s camp gave the club a courtesy call to inform them he would remain with the Western Sydney club.

Colleague Danny Weidler reported late Wednesday that Cleary and Penrith were working towards a two-year extension, with a further two seasons in Cleary’s favour.…