LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Penrith Panthers have made a significant move by signing young playmaker Elijah Birve from a rival club's youth system, indicating a potential transition post-Nathan Cleary. The four-time reigning champions have secured the 18-year-old halfback, who hails from the Sunshine Coast Falcons-an affiliate of the Melbourne Storm.
This acquisition follows previous signings of talented playmakers Keahn Skipps from the Raiders and Haami Loza from the Knights, showcasing the Panthers' strategy of acquiring emerging talent. Birve's signing comes ahead of the Storm's upcoming establishment of their own reserve-grade team in the NSW Cup, which will result in the Falcons seeking an affiliation with a Queensland NRL team. However, the Panthers acted quickly to sign Birve on a two-year deal expiring at the end of 2027.
Having been selected for the Queensland Under-18s schoolboys team this year, Birve is anticipated to kick off the 2026 season playing for the Panthers' SG Ball Cup side (Under 19s). With Birve joining Skipps and Loza, the Panthers are keenly building a roster of promising young playmakers.
The club already has Trent Toelau and Jack Cole signed, while Blaize Talagi has made his mark as the NRL team's five-eighth this season. Still, the influx of playmaker talent has prompted discussions among Panthers fans regarding the future of Cleary.
The star halfback remains under contract until the end of 2027, and the Panthers are eager to secure his services for an extended period. Nonetheless, speculation continues about his potential departure.
There are ongoing rumors suggesting that Cleary could consider a move closer to his girlfriend Mary Fowler, who primarily resides in the UK playing for Manchester City. He has been linked to the idea of shifting to the Super League or even European rugby. While Cleary has dismissed these rumors to date, he recently expressed a willingness to explore opportunities in rugby union.