Penrith Panthers coach Ivan Cleary has publicly rejected recent transfer rumours involving a potential swap between player Izaack Tago and Bronson Xerri of the Bulldogs. Cleary described the reports as “porky pies” and attributed them to a flawed player movement system that lacks structured transfer windows.
Tago, who has been a key player for Penrith, contributing to their last three grand final victories, did not participate in the opening round of the season due to a personal issue. He returned to the field via the NSW Cup, as teammate Tom Jenkins excelled in the early games. Tago is under contract with the Panthers for three more seasons, with an average annual salary of approximately $750,000, positioning him as one of the highest-paid centres in the National Rugby League (NRL).
Despite his established role, Tago has recently been linked to potential transfers, including a suggested trade with the Bulldogs for Xerri. This speculation prompted Greg Alexander, a commentator for Fox League and board member of the Panthers, to publicly deny the claims just a day after they emerged. A week prior, even Isaah Yeo faced questions regarding a possible trade of Tago to the Parramatta Eels in exchange for Zac Lomax, ignited by a listener’s message read on the radio.
“Someone’s lying. We love him,” Cleary stated when asked about the ongoing speculation regarding Tago. He emphasized that while such stories may benefit the media, they often stem from misinformation.
Calls for Structured Transfer Windows
Cleary reiterated his stance on the need for a reformed transfer system within the NRL. He criticized the current model, which operates year-round, as “ordinary.” The coach advocated for specific transfer windows to streamline player movements. During discussions surrounding the most recent Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) in 2023, the NRL explored various models for implementing transfer windows, including mid-season and off-season periods. However, these proposals faced considerable opposition and were ultimately set aside to reach a compromise with the Rugby League Players’ Association (RLPA).
The upcoming CBA negotiations will take place after the current broadcasting agreements for both free-to-air and pay television, which expire at the end of 2027, are finalized. The RLPA has consistently opposed the introduction of trade windows, arguing they would impose unnecessary restrictions on player movement and future planning. This contrasts with the Australian Football League (AFL), where a post-season trade period generates significant interest and media coverage year-round.
When asked if implementing transfer windows might reduce the speculation surrounding player movements in rugby league, Cleary responded, “We’ve certainly seen in other sports, it adds to that period where there’s build-up to it and fans can get involved in it.” He noted the current situation often leads to daily recruitment discussions, describing it as “crazy.”
Future Contracts and Player Retention
Looking ahead, the Panthers will see some changes in their lineup as players Scott Sorensen and Liam Henry are set to join the new Perth Bears franchise in 2027. The club also faces contract negotiations with several prominent players, including Yeo, Liam Martin, Brian To’o, Blaize Talagi, Isaiah Papali’i, and Moses Leota, all of whom will be off contract starting November 1.
Retaining star halfback Nathan Cleary remains a top priority for the Panthers. The club has already initiated preliminary discussions regarding contract extensions for both Nathan and Ivan Cleary, as they both approach the end of their contracts next season.
As the NRL continues to grapple with the complexities of player movements and contract negotiations, the discussions surrounding transfer windows and player speculation are likely to remain at the forefront of the league’s evolving landscape.
