Opinion

Sport columnist November 1, 2026 — 5:30am

November 1, 2026 — 5:30am

Nathan Cleary is a free agent as of today – and no matter how remote the chance of him leaving Penrith, the Roosters have emerged as a wildcard to have a serious crack at landing the game’s No.1 target.

A week ago, the Tricolours had barely given Cleary a second thought. But the shock split with their premiership-winning halfback Sam Walker has opened the door.

Nathan Cleary and Sam Walker are both free agents. Artwork: Stephen Kiprillis

Cleary is expected to stay at Penrith, where he has played his entire career to date. But the Roosters will at least give him something to consider beyond the Panthers and the Chiefs.…