Famed Penrith coach, Ivan Cleary, remains composed amidst the swirling waters of speculation, genuinely believing that the Panthers’ crown jewel, Jarome Luai, continues to feel a deep allegiance to the team. Yet, he acknowledges the potent allure of financial rewards, with colossal offers already poised for the championship-winning playmaker who now officially gazes into the bounties of the open market.
The Panthers have propositioned Luai with a striking $1.7 million two-year pact. A strategic offer considering the three premierships he has helped catapult them to. Despite this lucrative proposition, the talismanic playmaker left the offer unsigned past the November 1 deadline. This unpenned offer granted him the discretion to investigate potential shifts after the wrap of the 2024 season.
It appears the promise of enhanced monetary benefits and the opportunity to become the dominant figure for another team could be the deciding factors for Luai. The prospect of leaving his robust alliance with Penrith halfback virtuoso, Nathan Cleary, speaks volumes of the change in dynamics the 26-year-old is considering.
However, Coach Cleary, who has not conferred with his star five-eighth recently, affirms that Luai is an integral part of Penrith and hopes he continues to be. “I passionately believe that Luai’s place is here. Our mutually beneficial association forms a productive synergy,” he expressed.
The seasoned coach voiced his concerns regarding Luai’s readiness to shoulder the mantle of a central playmaker for another team, a challenging leap he will have to achieve if he consents to a high-stakes contract from a different team.
Navigating the perplexity of the situation, Cleary admits there might be some wiggle room to modify their proposal once opposing bids become transparent. He expressed his comfort with the progression of circumstances and remains optimistic about Luai’s stay with the Panthers.
Amidst this conjecture, the Penrith coach clarified, “We have made clear what we can feasibly offer, but there’s always room for modifications if necessary. We ardently wish for him to stay and believe he reciprocates this sentiment. However, the truth of the matter is that money holds a persuasive dialogue, and only time will relay what the future holds.”
