Panthers Group chief executive officer Brian Fletcher has revealed his plan to sign Ivan and Nathan Cleary for life after a fourth straight premiership.
Currently Nathan is signed until the end of 2027 on a $1.2 million-a-season deal while Ivan’s contract also ends that year.
Fletcher hopes both men will stick around for longer than their current deals.
“I hope they’re knocking on my door next week so we can get them out to 2030 at least – or while ever they’re walking we’ll sign them until,” he told 9news Sydney.
Despite the halfback’s lengthy contract, much has been made of his relationship with Manchester City star Mary Fowler.
The rumours were rampant over a potential Super League stint but that’s been shut down.
Fletcher hit that scenario from another angle.
“That’s Matt Cameron, the CEO of football’s job to bring her back to Australia permanently,” he laughed.
Being the international football star in the relationship it’s unlikely Fowler will be moving to Sydney’s west any time soon.
Cleary finished the season with plenty of injuries. His wrist was heavily strapped while his shoulder also caused him to miss the back end of the season.
His coach hopes he’ll be back in time for Penrith’s first match in Las Vegas.
“There is a chance. Hopefully he’ll be there,” Ivan said.
“Knowing Nat he’ll do everything he possibly can to get there.”
Another player with injury concerns is Liam Martin, with the second-rower expected to be ruled out of the Pacific Championships for Australia.
Ivan said “he could use a rest”.
“He’s got so many things wrong with him,” he added.
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