Munster eyes PNG Chiefs 2028
Melbourne Storm allows Cameron Munster to discuss potential 2028 move with PNG Chiefs
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Key Points
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Matty Lees has been signed by the PNG Chiefs, adding to their list of marquee acquisitions alongside Jarome Luai, Alex Johnston and Connor Watson.
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Joey Manu has held talks with the PNG Chiefs recently, and the club is closing in on signing Zac Lomax for 2028.
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Penrith No.7 Nathan Cleary’s future remains uncertain unless he signs a new deal with the Panthers before November 1, opening options for rival clubs.
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The PNG Chiefs are described as flush with tax-free cash, fueling a rapid recruitment drive ahead of their 2028 entry into the NRL.
Melbourne Storm playmaker Cameron Munster has been cleared to hold talks with the PNG Chiefs about a possible move in 2028, according to The Sydney Morning Herald. The 31-year-old's current Storm contract runs until the end of 2027, making him a prime target for the NRL's newest franchise.
The PNG Chiefs — flush with tax-free cash and backed by the NRL — are building fast. They have already locked in Jarome Luai, Alex Johnston, Connor Watson, and Matty Lees, according to The Age. Munster could be next.
Storm Give Munster the Green Light to Explore Move
Melbourne Storm have given Munster formal permission to speak with the Chiefs, a rare move that signals both sides are open to a split at the end of 2027. Talks could go further — Munster may even travel to Port Moresby for a facilities tour as part of the process, The Age reported.
Both the Storm and Munster have also left the door open to a contract extension beyond 2027. But the PNG Chiefs are a serious option. A move would pair Munster in the halves alongside Luai — one of the NRL's most dangerous playmakers — making for a potent combination, according to The Epoch Times.
PNG Chiefs Already Assembling a Star-Studded Roster
The Chiefs are not wasting time. Alongside Luai, Johnston, Watson, and Lees, the club is closing in on a deal for Zac Lomax for 2028. Joey Manu has also held recent talks with the franchise, according to Head Topics.
The club is deliberately holding off on locking in a premier halves partner until the November 1 transfer window opens. That window is key — it is the point at which out-of-contract players can officially sign with rival clubs. The Chiefs want to move fast once that date hits.
Nathan Cleary's Uncertain Future Adds to the Mix
Munster is not the only big name in play. Penrith Panthers halfback Nathan Cleary has yet to sign a new deal with the club. If he does not before November 1, rival clubs can begin negotiating with him directly, Head Topics reported.
Sam Walker is another name being watched closely. The PNG Chiefs are moving ahead of both players in their recruitment drive, targeting proven stars rather than waiting on uncertain situations. The franchise's tax-free salary structure gives it a major edge over rival NRL clubs.
Knee Injury No Barrier to Munster's Big Career Decision
Munster is currently sidelined with a knee injury, but that has not slowed talks. The Storm gave him permission to engage with the Chiefs even while he recovers, according to The Epoch Times. His ability to negotiate now gives him time to weigh his options carefully.
If he signs with PNG, Munster would become the second NRL premiership winner to join the Chiefs, following Luai. If a deal does not get done, he could still re-sign with Melbourne or attract interest from other clubs once the November window opens, according to The Sydney Morning Herald.
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