James Maloney has all but confirmed a move to Penrith on a three-year deal beginning from next NRL season.
Maloney will replace former captain Matt Moylan after the Panthers star was unveiled at Cronulla last week.
Penrith are expected to announce the deal next week, however Maloney said he was keen to join what would be his fifth club in 10 years.
“It looks that way. Obviously the deal’s not all signed yet but it looks like it’s going to go that way. Looking forward to it,” Maloney said.
Maloney had his first Rugby League World Cup outing in Australia’s win over Lebanon on Saturday, scoring a try and setting up two more at Allianz Stadium.
His signing adds to an impressive recruitment drive over the past three years, including former NSW State of Origin stars Trent Merrin and James Tamou.
Maloney is also the incumbent Blues five-eighth, while Panthers halfback Nathan Cleary is touted as a future representative star.
“It’s a really exciting roster. They’ve got some really talented young kids, really strong forward pack to play behind,” he said.
“Looking forward to teaming up with Nathan Cleary. I think he’s been tremendous since he’s come into the top grade and looking forward to partnering him and hopefully can help him in some way and have a bit of success out there.”
Mushi
Guest
That's arguable, Maloney is a very hit and miss player in general play. In a good team with a coach that can harness it then he can be very effective but "true professional" is a stretch. He's a bit of a class clown on the training paddock, the reason he goes where the money is because not one of his current employers fought to keep him. He's a good player if the contract reflects the down side as well as the highlights.
theHunter
Guest
Has been to most clubs and has played in 3 Grand Finals with two wins and a loss at that. I'd say he is the most underachieved player going around and even though he is not paid as well as the JT's, Cronks, Pearce, etc... He still performs his heart out. I wish him well at the Panthers.
BleakCity
Roar Rookie
Tends to play pretty well in his first season at a new club so should be interesting viewing out west. Signing a 3 year contract might be a bit optimistic though. Has he been anywhere for 3 seasons? Also when did the Pennies last have a half for 3 consecutive seasons?
Beastie
Roar Rookie
He may have no loyalty to any one club, but he always performs wherever he goes and seems to bring success wherever he goes. He is a true professional player, he may go where the money is but he always delivers his best.
Big Barry
Guest
Maloney isn't worth the money been to more clubs that most and is only after the dollar and has no loyalty to any club-
Riggs
Guest
Will be good for Panthers and a potential audition to see if he and Cleary are origin material as a halves pair. If Cleary is not ready, Maloney could likely be the NSW number 7 with the options of Moylan, Austin, Bird or even Josh Reynolds at 6.
paul
Guest
Hope Maloney does better than Merrin and Tamou. They haven't exactly set the world on fire at the Panthers.