Michael Jennings was set to make a dramatic switch to St George-Illawarra next year before his manager stepped in and stopped the deal.
The Sun Herald reports that Jennings was set to be released by the Panthers board to join the Dragons, but after the deal had been done, Jennings’ manager Isaac Moses blocked the arrangement.
The Panthers were set to benefit hugely from the deal in terms of their finances, with the proposed deal only costing them about $200,000.
If Jennings stays at Penrith, he’ll cost them $2 million over the next three years.
The Herald says Jennings may still be on the move, with his manager preferring a switch to the Wests Tigers, who have recently cleared the decks and will have money to spend.
It’s widely known that Penrith will have to lose at least one big name player to ensure they don’t exceed the salary cap. Back-ended deals means the problem will hit its height in 2014.
Meanwhile, Canterbury’s Josh Reynolds has revealed he almost joined Penrith.
Reynolds, who is preparing for this afternoon’s grand final against Melbourne, knocked back an offer from Phil Gould to join the Panthers.
“When someone of Gus’ stature has a bit of interest in you, you obviously have to listen,” Reynolds told the Sunday Telegraph.
In other news, Trent Waterhouse’s move to England has proven a huge success with the forward preparing to play a grand final next weekend.
Waterhouse scored two tries for Warrington in their 36-18 semi final win over St Helens this morning. The Wolves will play Leeds next weekend.
