Sam Walker emerges as PNG Chiefs' target after Cleary stays at Penrith
PNG Chiefs are now pursuing Sam Walker as their inaugural halfback after missing out on Nathan Cleary, who stayed at Penrith.
The PNG Chiefs have turned to Sam Walker as their main recruitment target after failing to attract Nathan Cleary. The franchise offered Cleary the equivalent of $5 million per year gross, $2.5 million as a tax-free contract plus at least $500,000 in third-party deals, but Cleary opted to stay at Penrith and is finalising a two-year extension with options for two more years.
Zane Harrison recommitted to the Gold Coast Titans through 2029. Walker had a falling out with the Roosters after asking for more time and money before recommitting, prompting the club to pull its offer and raising speculation he may have played his last match for them.
Chiefs coach Willie Peters said if Walker is genuinely interested, the club will consider him. Walker's agent said his client will wait until after the World Cup to decide his next move.
- $5 million
- Cleary offer gross annually
- 7 players
- Chiefs already signed
- through 2029
- Harrison Titans commitment
Why it mattersAn emerging franchise needs star halfbacks to succeed, and losing two targets changes their recruitment strategy for launch season.
AustraliaThis reshapes the NRL landscape as PNG Chiefs build their inaugural squad and Australian players weigh international opportunities.
