The Penrith Panthers may prioritize Stefano Utoikamanu in their recruitment efforts, but the Wests Tigers have made it clear they won’t easily part with the promising young star.
Earlier this week, the Panthers stunned the NRL by announcing they would release star prop James Fisher-Harris from the final two years of his contract. While this leaves a gap in their prop lineup for the 2025 and 2026 seasons, the Panthers are known for their depth of talent.
However, reports quickly surfaced linking Penrith to Utoikamanu, the talented Tigers prop who is showcasing the potential that once made him one of the most highly regarded junior forwards in the game. With 59 NRL games under his belt, Utoikamanu’s contract expires at the end of next season, with clauses that could allow him to depart in 2024, depending on the Tigers’ performance.
Despite Penrith’s interest, Tigers boss Shane Richardson has emphasized the club’s determination to retain Utoikamanu, describing the contract clauses as “unusual” remnants of the club’s past. Richardson expressed confidence that Utoikamanu wants to stay and that they will find a solution in the coming months.
Utoikamanu himself has expressed his preference to remain with the Tigers, despite past criticisms of the club’s leaks under previous administrations. Tigers veteran Benji Marshall echoed this sentiment, affirming the club’s affection for Utoikamanu and expressing confidence in securing his future, unfazed by interest from other clubs.
