LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Panthers coach Ivan Cleary has dismissed the idea of Daly Cherry-Evans joining the team to partner his son Nathan in the halves.
Cherry-Evans has announced his departure from Manly after the 2025 season, sparking speculation about his future.
While some believe the Roosters could be his next destination, there are suggestions that the Panthers could be an option for Cherry-Evans as he seeks to win another premiership.
However, Cleary shut down those rumors by stating that Cherry-Evans is not within their price range.
The Panthers' salary cap limitations have been well-documented, with recent departures like Jarome Luai highlighting the team's financial constraints.
Despite Manly offering Cherry-Evans $750,000 per season, another club is likely to offer him a more lucrative deal.
Cleary's response to the possibility of Cherry-Evans joining the Panthers was clear and concise: "He wouldn't be in the price range." This statement indicates that the Panthers are unable to afford a player of Cherry-Evans' caliber due to their salary cap situation.
While fans may have speculated about the potential partnership between Cherry-Evans and Cleary in the Panthers' halves, Cleary's response suggests that such a scenario is unlikely to materialize.
The coach's straightforward declaration provides insight into the financial constraints that the Panthers are currently facing in building their roster for future seasons.