An unprecedented clause has been revealed in the new contract of Penrith superstar Nathan Cleary.
The Panthers earlier this month announced big extensions for the halfback, and for his father and coach Ivan.
The pair have committed to the club until the end of 2027, on deals worth several millions of dollars.
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But less than a fortnight later, journalist Michael Chammas has revealed an unusual detail in the contract of Nathan.
Essentially, if the Panthers at any stage sack Ivan as coach of the team, it will allow his son to leave the club.
“I don’t want to rain on the parade of Panthers fans, who are still celebrating that deal with Ivan and Nathan Cleary,” Chammas said.
“But it turns out there has been a very interesting clause that has been added to the deal.
“Nathan Cleary will become a free agent if his Ivan’s contract is ever terminated by the Panthers.
“I know it seems like a long shot at the moment, but there have been instances in the past – Michael Maguire at South Sydney, Paul Green at the Cowboys – where things have soured pretty quickly after winning a premiership.
“Nathan’s future is tied to Ivan’s future, and you would be a brave man to punt the coach knowing that.”
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