Liam Martin has indicated that financial considerations alone won't dictate his decision about his future, as he contemplates staying with Penrith.
Contract negotiations with the Panthers are currently paused due to their focus on the qualifying final against the Sydney Roosters this Sunday.
Key players, including Nathan Cleary and Isaah Yeo, are also approaching contract expiry, creating a challenging situation for Penrith as they manage several offers under the salary cap.
Moses Leota, among others whose contracts will end next season, echoed Martin's sentiments, revealing that staying at Penrith would be a tough choice.
If Martin is not signed by November 1, he is likely to attract significant offers in the open market.
Additional factors include options like tax-free earnings from Papua New Guinea, which could appeal to players weighing their choices, especially given the NRL's restrictions on other contracts.
Despite these factors, Martin emphasized that his strong connections with teammates and the culture at Penrith are vital components of his decision-making process.
"There could be more money elsewhere, but money is not everything at the end of the day," he stated.
Martin, who has been with Penrith for a decade, noted the importance of his family ties and friendships formed over the years.
He also acknowledged the bittersweet nature of seeing former teammates leave for rival teams, saying, "That success is so addictive, and what we've got here is an incredible culture."
While the Panthers recently lost Brian To'o to the Chiefs, Yeo is nearing a new contract. Cleary remains hopeful about staying, while Leota expressed uncertainty about his situation.
"Penrith is my home and this is all I have ever known," Leota explained, reflecting on his attachment to the club.