Penrith Panthers Set to Seal Deal with Magnificent Payne Haas in Stunning NRL Power Move
Imagine Haas and Cleary: A Dynasty in the Making at Penrith
In what could become one of the biggest and most groundbreaking signings in modern NRL history, the Penrith Panthers are reportedly on the verge of sealing a sensational deal for Brisbane Broncos powerhouse Payne Haas. Multiple high-level sources have indicated that Penrith have aggressively pursued the Origin and Test prop forward, with negotiations said to be at an advanced stage.
If the deal is completed, it would unite one of the NRL’s most dominant forwards with one of its most brilliant playmakers — Nathan Cleary — setting the stage for an era-defining partnership that could further cement Penrith’s place at the top of the rugby league world.
While no official confirmation has been made by either club, insiders suggest the Panthers have tabled a multi-year deal that could make Haas one of the highest-paid forwards in the competition. The potential acquisition of Haas is being described as a “statement of intent” by the reigning NRL juggernauts, who are eager to keep their dynasty alive amid growing pressure from emerging challengers.
A Front-Row Revolution
Haas, 25, has long been regarded as the most destructive front-rower in the game. Known for his freakish athleticism, incredible motor, and unmatched work rate, the New South Wales and Australian representative has been the cornerstone of Brisbane’s forward pack since his debut. But after years of speculation about his long-term future and a desire to win multiple premierships, the temptation to join the reigning champions appears to have tipped the scales.
“He wants to win,” a source close to Haas revealed. “He sees what’s happening at Penrith, the system, the coaching, the culture — and he’s been picturing himself as the missing piece in that machine.”
The Cleary Connection
At the heart of Penrith’s modern-day dynasty is halfback Nathan Cleary, whose composure, vision, and leadership have guided the Panthers to multiple premierships. The idea of pairing him with a world-class enforcer like Haas is already sending shivers down the spines of rival clubs.
“Imagine a team where Nathan Cleary has a platform laid by Payne Haas every single week,” one analyst said on Fox League. “You’re looking at sustained dominance. It’s frightening.”
Cleary is believed to have played a behind-the-scenes role in the recruitment push, reaching out to Haas personally and outlining the vision the Panthers have for the next five years. The two are said to have built mutual respect while playing together for New South Wales in State of Origin.
What This Means for Penrith
For the Panthers, securing Haas would not only replace but arguably upgrade their middle forward stock, particularly after the departures of key forwards over the last two seasons. With James Fisher-Harris set to depart and Moses Leota nearing the twilight of his peak years, Haas would become the new engine of the Penrith pack.
The Final Steps
While negotiations are nearing completion, final logistics — including salary cap considerations and transfer agreements — are still being ironed out. Brisbane are understandably reluctant to lose their star, but the Panthers’ offer and the player’s desire for silverware may ultimately prove decisive.
Should the move go through, expect the NRL landscape to shift dramatically — with Penrith poised to become even more formidable.
Haas and Cleary: the ultimate combination of force and finesse. Rugby league may never be the same again.
