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Penrith Panthers fans, brace yourselves! NRL legend Corey Parker has dropped a bombshell, suggesting star halfback Nathan Cleary could be tempted by a lucrative offer from a new, rival rugby competition – R360 – potentially earning him a staggering $3 million per season.

The looming threat of R360, a breakaway rugby competition backed by significant private investment from Saudi Arabia, is causing concern within the NRL landscape. Spearheaded by former England international Mike Tindall, the competition is designed to poach top talent from both rugby league and rugby union, and Cleary’s name has been prominently mentioned as a potential target.

Parker, speaking on Sky Sports, didn’t shy away from the possibility. “There’s a real concern, absolutely,” he stated. “You look at Nathan Cleary, he’s arguably the best player in the NRL right now. If he was to go to this R360 competition, you’d be looking at a deal upwards of $3 million a year, no question.”

This potential move throws a significant wrench into Penrith’s plans. Cleary is the linchpin of their premiership-winning team, and losing him would be a devastating blow. The Panthers are currently locked in contract negotiations with their key players, and the emergence of R360 adds another layer of complexity to those discussions.

What is R360?

R360 is a new rugby competition aiming to disrupt the traditional rugby landscape. Funded by private investors, including significant backing from Saudi Arabia, it promises higher salaries and a potentially more global reach. The competition's focus is on attracting elite players with promises of increased earning potential and a fresh challenge.

Why Cleary?

The reasons Cleary is a prime target are obvious. He’s a proven winner, a natural leader, and possesses exceptional skill. His ability to control the game and deliver clutch performances makes him incredibly valuable – qualities highly sought after in any sport. Furthermore, his marketability extends beyond the NRL, making him an attractive asset for a competition looking to gain global recognition.

The NRL’s Response

The NRL is acutely aware of the threat posed by R360 and is working to retain its top players. Increased salary caps and improved contract offers are being explored, but the sheer financial power of the Saudi-backed competition presents a formidable challenge. The league will need to act decisively to ensure it doesn't lose its stars to rival codes.

The Future of Cleary

For now, Cleary remains committed to the Panthers. However, the possibility of a $3 million payday in rugby cannot be dismissed. It’s a scenario that will undoubtedly be weighing on the minds of Penrith management and NRL fans alike. The next few months will be crucial as contract negotiations unfold and the true impact of R360 becomes clearer. Will Cleary stay loyal to the NRL, or will he be tempted by the lure of a record-breaking rugby deal?