Matt Johns suggests 10-year contract for Nathan Cleary

Rugby league star Matt Johns has stirred discussion with a bold theory regarding Nathan Cleary's future at the Penrith Panthers. This comes after another player, Dylan Brown, signed a massive 10-year deal with Newcastle. Johns says he would offer Cleary a similar long-term contract that could also lead to a coaching position once he retires. Cleary’s contract with the Panthers runs until the end of 2027. Johns believes that if something were to happen with the current coach, Ivan Cleary, Nathan could step in immediately. He suggests that a 10-year deal would keep Cleary at the club for life. By the end of this deal, he would almost be 40 years old but still contribute as a coach. Speculation about Cleary’s future has been fueled by talks of him wanting to be closer to his girlfriend, Mary Fowler. Fowler plays for England's Manchester City and the couple has been managing a long-distance relationship. NRL boss Andrew Abdo noted Fowler's heritage might attract Cleary to a new PNG franchise set to join the league in 2028. This franchise will have significant backing from the federal government. Abdo thinks that Cleary playing for PNG could draw more fans to rugby league, especially with the public interest in his relationship with Fowler.