Panthers ‘Give Ivan Cleary His Wish’ as Deal Nears Completion for Lightning-Fast Star
Penrith Panthers are on the verge of completing a high-profile signing that is set to thrill fans and bolster their backline, with reports indicating that Dragons fullback Tyrell Sloan is close to finalising a sensational move to the reigning NRL champions.
The 22-year-old speedster, long admired by Panthers coach Ivan Cleary, is believed to have agreed personal terms with Penrith after weeks of behind-the-scenes negotiations. While no official confirmation has been made by either club, multiple sources have confirmed that the deal is “almost done” – marking a significant coup for the Panthers ahead of the 2026 campaign.
Sloan, one of the NRL’s most electric attacking weapons, has stood out for St George Illawarra despite the club’s ongoing struggles. His blistering pace, agility, and ability to create something out of nothing has made him a prized target for several clubs across the league. But it’s Penrith who have now emerged as frontrunners, reportedly granting Cleary a long-standing wish to work with the dynamic young talent.
“This is a player Ivan Cleary has had his eye on for a while,” one insider revealed. “He believes Sloan can be a genuine game-changer in that Panthers system and complement their already devastating attack. It’s not just about speed — it’s about potential, and Cleary sees a player he can elevate to the next level.”
The move, believed to be a three-year contract, is expected to be announced as early as next week, pending final agreement on a transfer fee between the two clubs. While Sloan is under contract at the Dragons until the end of 2026, the club is reportedly open to releasing him early to free up salary cap space and restructure their rebuild under new head coach Jason Ryles.
Dragons fans will no doubt be disheartened to see one of their brightest homegrown stars depart, particularly after Sloan showed flashes of brilliance throughout a difficult 2025 season. But club officials appear resigned to the move, with sources suggesting they’ve already begun identifying potential replacements.
For Penrith, Sloan’s impending arrival signals a clear intent to maintain their dominance at the top of the NRL ladder. With long-serving fullback Dylan Edwards moving into a utility role and rumours swirling about a shift to the halves in the coming seasons, Sloan’s addition could see him step straight into a starting role.
Panthers fans have reacted with excitement to the news on social media, with many welcoming the explosive back as a natural fit for their high-octane style of play.
Sloan, who made his NRL debut in 2021, has racked up over 60 appearances and 30 tries to date. His ability to spark attacking plays from deep and evade defenders with ease has made him a highlight-reel regular — and one of the most exciting young players in the game.
As the paperwork nears completion, Penrith appear to have pulled off yet another masterstroke in the transfer market. And if all goes to plan, Ivan Cleary will soon get his wish — with Tyrell Sloan set to don the black jersey in 2026.
