Penrith Panthers, New South Wales Blues and Australian Kangaroos superstar Nathan Cleary is set to test the open market for the first time in his career.

While he hasn't said it's a guarantee, he has certainly hinted it's going to happen.

The Penrith Panthers have a stretched salary cap, and just maybe, the star halfback is getting itchy feet around what his legacy will be if he never tries to play outside of the Penrith system.

There are plenty of fresh challenges around the competition for him to have a crack at while he is still in the prime of his career.

From heading to an under fire club, to an expansion one, to linking up with another premiership contender, all options are on the table for a player who will fetch well and truly over a million per season once he starts to test his true worth from November 1.

Penrith are still a great chance of capturing Cleary's signature, but if he does leave the foot of the mountains, where does he wind up?

We have analysed and ranked every club's chance of landing the Penrith star.

13. Parramatta Eels

Another club who just looks an unlikely new home for the Penrith superstar is the Parramatta Eels.

Mitchell Moses is contracted long-term, and they have a host of young halves in their system who are rated very highly.

But the Eels may be tempted.

They have struggled for success for many years, and the chance to link up the likely New South Wales halves in 2026 could be too good to refuse.

Maybe the only question on a play is whether Moses would be comfortable moving to five-eighth, and whether the Eels could come up with the money.

We suspect not, so tough to push them any higher on the list.

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