The PNG Chiefs have continued to hint that their next signing will be their biggest, with the expansion club potentially targeting a star halfback to join their inaugural roster.

Last week, the Chiefs confirmed their sixth signing in Panthers and NSW Origin winger Brian To'o, adding his name to the steps at Port Moresby, which detail each of the club's signings in order, beginning with their first recruit, Jarome Luai.

However, one detail on the steps has continued to be shared by PNG Chiefs.

While the numbers assigned to each signing have no direct correlation to the position they will play on the field, the seventh step reads ‘007 (reserved), the choice to block out that number hinting towards the halfback selection.

Two of the game's biggest names are set to hit the open market from November 1, with Nathan Cleary and Sam Walker both off-contract at the end of the 2027 season and free to negotiate with rival clubs.

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - MAY 04: Nathan Cleary of the Panthers celebrates after scoring a try during the round nine NRL match between the Penrith Panthers and Brisbane Broncos at Suncorp Stadium on May 04, 2025, in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)
BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - MAY 04: Nathan Cleary of the Panthers celebrates after scoring a try during the round nine NRL match between the Penrith Panthers and Brisbane Broncos at Suncorp Stadium on May 04, 2025, in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)

According to Matty Johns, PNG is confident it can land one of the two star playmakers.

“Apparently, they're very confident. My mail is they're confident that they'll get either Cleary or Walker. That's what they're talking," Johns said on SEN radio.

Walker could arguably be the more attainable of the pair, with his management and the Roosters yet to agree on a price and negotiations reported to be held off until after the finals.

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NRL Rd 2 - Sea Eagles v Roosters
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 17: Sam Walker of the Roosters kicks during the round two NRL match between Manly Sea Eagles and Sydney Roosters at 4 Pines Park, on March 17, 2024, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

PNG's tax-free advantage could prove particularly significant in any pursuit of the 23-year-old, allowing the new franchise to potentially match his asking price of $1.7million a season, while also offering third-party agreements.

Cleary's situation, meanwhile, could become more intriguing with his father and Panthers coach Ivan Cleary set to depart the club at the end of next season.

While there is nothing to suggest the superstar halfback is actively seeking an exit from Penrith, the departure of his father could provide an opportunity for Nathan to consider a fresh challenge elsewhere as well.

There is also the potential for another Cleary family connection at the Panthers, with Nathan's younger brother Jett reported to be seeking a release from the New Zealand Warriors to join Penrith next season.

2025 NRL State Championship Grand Final – Bears v Warriors
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - OCTOBER 05: Jett Cleary of the Warriors looks on from the bench during the NRL State Championship Grand Final match between the Burleigh Bears and New Zealand Warriors at Accor Stadium on October 05, 2025, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)

Should that move eventuate, 2027 could present a fascinating scenario where Nathan helps develop his younger brother and then makes the move to PNG in 2028 to reunite with former halves partner Luai.

For now, however, all movements remain speculation.

The Chiefs cannot openly display their pursuit of either Cleary or Walker until November 1, when both players are free to formally negotiate with rival clubs.

But with the number seven seemingly reserved on the Chiefs' recruitment staircase, the mystery surrounding their seventh signing will only intensify over the coming months.