LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Nathan Cleary has addressed ongoing rumors linking him to a move to rugby union, asserting that he does not want to "waste" his prime years and aims to maximize his rugby league career.
Speculation about a potential switch has resurfaced, particularly during last year's finals series when discussions arose about a move closer to his partner, Mary Fowler.
While there have been suggestions regarding Cleary's interest in earning substantial contracts overseas or testing himself with the Wallabies, these ideas have not originated from Cleary himself, who has often had to dispel such rumors.
At 27, Cleary has two years left on his contract with the Penrith Panthers and stands to gain the largest contract in rugby league history if he decides to remain in the NRL.
Although the idea of exploring another sport is tempting, it does not align with Cleary's current focus.
He is busy rewriting record books in rugby league while confronting new challenges as his team, the four-time defending premiers, struggles to stay competitive after recently dropping to the bottom of the ladder.
Cleary remarked, "I think I've got enough challenges in front of me playing rugby league," while speaking from Blues camp in Leura.