Panthers Head Coach Ivan Cleary Reveals Why the club most keep strike centre Taylan May
Given that opponents are around the talented striker Taylan May, Penrith coach Ivan Cleary is doubtful the team will be able to hold onto May.
Happy to welcome back memories of last year’s championship game, the Panthers are wrapping up their preparations for their grand final rematch against Brisbane on Thursday night.
However, Penrith’s pursuit of an elusive fourth consecutive championship is taking place in the background while May’s future is being determined.
After missing 2023 due to injury, the 22-year-old is the most well-known Panther without a contract till the end of this year. He has shown promise in two games in the center.
Penrith is eager to maintain the Samoa international and has formally started negotiations for a new agreement.
However, other teams could offer him a larger salary.
The Sydney Roosters are one because Terrell, May’s brother, who isn’t on the Tricolours’ contract, has openly expressed his wish to play with Taylan.
Given that prop Jared Waerea-Hargreaves and centres Joey Manu and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii are expected to go at the conclusion of the season, the two might represent a significant package deal for the Roosters.
Cleary was cautious when asked on Wednesday if he thought the Panthers could keep May.
“I’m not sure (if he’ll stay),” said Cleary. “If I’m being confident, I don’t know.
“We really hope Taylan stays. He is aware of that.
Regarding their repeat in the grand final with the Broncos, Penrith were less coy.
They’ll have no prop. James Fisher-Harris had a shoulder injury, although the damage wasn’t as great as initially thought, and he is currently a week-by-week player.
Cleary has never adopted that stance, despite coach Kevin Walters forbidding discussion of last year’s championship in Brisbane.
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