In a shock move that has sent shockwaves through both the NRL and Super League, Penrith Panthers’ star halfback Nathan Cleary is set to join the Wigan Warriors after receiving a staggering $10 million, five-year deal from the English rugby league giants. The deal, one of the most lucrative in rugby league history, will see Cleary make the high-profile switch to the Super League after the current NRL season, marking the end of an era for the Penrith Panthers and one of the most exciting transfers in the sport’s history.
A New Chapter for Cleary
Nathan Cleary, 26, is widely regarded as one of the best players in rugby league today. His impressive combination of vision, kicking game, and leadership has seen him lead the Penrith Panthers to two NRL Premiership titles in 2021 and 2022, as well as the State of Origin series with New South Wales. Cleary’s decision to move to Wigan is a massive coup for the Super League and represents a major shift in the global rugby league landscape.
Cleary’s reported move to Wigan has left many fans stunned. The deal, which will keep Cleary at the Warriors for five years, sees the Australian international being paid $10 million over the term of his contract. This remarkable contract offer positions him among the highest-paid players in the sport, far surpassing any previous Super League contracts, and it’s clear the Warriors are banking on Cleary to not only lead their team on the field but also to boost the profile of the Super League in a new era.
Why Wigan?
Wigan Warriors have long been one of the most successful and storied clubs in the Super League, with a history that stretches back to 1872. The club, based in the north of England, has been synonymous with rugby league success and is seen as a powerhouse within the sport. The move for Cleary is part of a wider ambition to strengthen the Warriors’ squad and enhance their position on the international stage. Wigan, keen to boost their competitiveness in the Super League and in European rugby league, see Cleary’s arrival as pivotal for their long-term success.
The Warriors’ decision to pursue Cleary has been driven by several factors. Firstly, the club has been undergoing a rebuilding phase and has identified the need for a world-class playmaker who can take the team to the next level. Cleary’s tactical kicking game and leadership on the field are seen as invaluable assets that will undoubtedly elevate Wigan’s performance. With Wigan’s growing aspirations of competing in international competitions, bringing in Cleary also signals the club’s desire to attract top talent from the Southern Hemisphere and make a statement of intent.
A Record-Setting Deal
Cleary’s deal is the largest contract ever offered by a Super League club and dwarfs previous offers made to top players in the league. The $10 million price tag is a clear indication of how highly Wigan values Cleary and his potential to take the Warriors to new heights. The contract includes a variety of incentives, including performance-based bonuses, with Cleary set to earn further sums based on team success, individual accolades, and international appearances.
Cleary’s move to the Super League is part of a broader trend where more NRL stars are considering overseas moves, lured by higher salaries, new challenges, and the opportunity to grow the game in Europe. Although Cleary will be leaving the NRL at the peak of his career, his impact on the league will be felt for many years to come.
Reaction from Penrith and Fans
The Penrith Panthers, where Cleary has played his entire NRL career, are understandably disappointed by the news. As the club’s star playmaker, Cleary has been central to their recent success and is viewed as the face of the Panthers. His departure will leave a significant void in the squad, and the club will now be tasked with finding a suitable replacement to maintain their Premiership aspirations.
Despite the departure, the Panthers have expressed their gratitude to Cleary for his contributions to the team, acknowledging that his legacy at the club will be remembered for years to come. Cleary’s leadership and performance in key games have made him one of the NRL’s most beloved players.
Many Panthers fans, however, have expressed a mixture of shock, sadness, and admiration for Cleary’s decision. While they will miss his presence on the field, many understand the opportunity he has been given and the chance to take on a new challenge in the Super League.
What’s Next for Nathan Cleary?
As Cleary prepares to make the move to Wigan, attention will turn to how he can make an immediate impact in the Super League. His leadership will be crucial to the Warriors’ ambitions, and fans are eagerly awaiting the arrival of one of the NRL’s most talented and influential players.
Cleary’s decision to leave the NRL and join Wigan is a groundbreaking moment for rugby league, highlighting the growing influence of the Super League and the sport’s global appeal. Fans in England are already buzzing at the prospect of seeing Cleary in action, while his legacy in Australia remains firmly intact.
This landmark deal marks the beginning of a new chapter for Nathan Cleary and the Wigan Warriors, and it’s sure to be one of the most talked-about transfers in rugby league for years to come.
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