Panthers confirm impending departure of sought-after prop

Following extensive media speculation and reports of rivals competing for his services, the Penrith Panthers have today confirmed that hotly sought-after prop Spencer Leniu will depart the club at the end of the 2023 season.

The 22-year-old front-rower has grown in profile and stature since making his debut for the Panthers in 2019, playing 61 NRL games for the club - including the 2021/22 Grand Final successes.

2022 was a career-best campaign for Leniu, playing 25 games and scoring six tries, including the all-important go-ahead try in the 2022 Preliminary Final over South Sydney. He also represented Samoa at the 2022 World Cup, coming off the bench during their historic appearance in the tournament final.

“Although it’s disappointing to see a Panthers junior sign with another NRL club, we understand Spencer is a premiership winner and international player, who has received external interest,” Panthers Rugby League CEO Matt Cameron said.

"Panthers thanks Spencer for his efforts for the club and is looking forward to seeing him run out for the Panthers for the remainder of the 2023 NRL season.”

While yet to be confirmed, it's been recently reported that Leniu will head East to join the Sydney Roosters in 2024. It's also believed that Phil Gould, Cameron Ciraldo and the Bulldogs are monitoring the situation.

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