Phil Gould, the former general manager of the Penrith Panthers, is confident that Nathan Cleary will not be leaving the club amid speculation regarding the star halfback's future.
Cleary has not yet re-signed with the Panthers and can begin discussions with other teams for a contract starting in 2028 in two months.
As a two-time Clive Churchill Medallist and the top halfback in the league, Cleary stands to command a lucrative deal if he decides to explore his options in November.
Gould believes that Cleary's future at Penrith is bright and doesn't foresee him departing from the organization that helped elevate him to stardom.
"I would find it extraordinary if he left the Panthers; I just don't see that happening," he stated during an appearance on Nine's 100% Footy.
"PNG? Well, unless people know more than me, I don't see that as being where he'd like to finish his career.
"I think he's got the chance to do something with the Panthers that might be unrivalled throughout the history of the game. He's still only 28 ... I still think there's more to come, more premierships and Origins for him to do.
"I would hate to see him leave Penrith, and I hope that doesn't happen."
Meanwhile, head coach Ivan will resign from his role at the season's end next year, and fan favorite Brian To'o will relocate to Port Moresby as a foundational player for the PNG Chiefs.