The Penrith Panthers are on the verge of their largest contract success, as Isaah Yeo is believed to have reached an agreement for a new deal.
The NSW Blues captain is among several players whose contracts expire at the end of 2027, but his new deal is expected to be announced before the finals, according to the Western Weekender.
Penrith's contract situation is widely known, highlighted by Yeo, Liam Martin, and Nathan Cleary needing new agreements by the end of 2027.
While Martin met with club officials this week and will hold off on decisions until the season concludes, Cleary is still a strong candidate for negotiations extending to November 1, whereas Yeo is not expected to do the same.
Yeo has been negotiating with the Panthers recently, and it's possible they allocated funds originally saved for Brian To'o to secure his contract.
To'o has confirmed he will join the PNG Chiefs after 2027, which will save the Panthers over $600,000 each season from their hefty salary cap.
This budget will quickly diminish as they work to renegotiate with other star players, but securing Yeo's signature well ahead of November 1 is a significant advantage for the team.
While details on the contract length and financial improvement for Yeo remain unclear, it's reasonable to believe he is on track to become a one-club player, having started with the Panthers in 2014 and played 283 games.
Currently sidelined by injury, Yeo is striving to make a comeback during the finals, as the Panthers aim for their fifth championship in six years.