James Fisher-Harris next target in Penrith retention drive

Penrith officials are keen to tie down James Fisher-Harris for the long term.

James Fisher-Harris had a breakout season for the Panthers in 2020.

Penrith is ready to turn its sights to powerhouse front rower James Fisher-Harris after the grand finalsists took a massive step towards retaining the bulk of that squad by completing the signing of five-eighth Jarome Luai for the next three seasons.

The Panthers confirmed Luai had inked a new deal until the end of 2024 but they have precious little time to rest on their laurels. Fisher-Harris is regarded as one of, if the not, premier prop in the game and Penrith is keen to ensure he is locked into a long-term deal before he hits the open market later this year.

For a fleeting moment, Panthers general manager of rugby league Matt Cameron can take a well-earned breath, having beaten interest from elsewhere to secure Luai, Steve Crichton and Isaah Yeo in a $6 million spending spree that has shored up the club’s future.

Next stop will be Fisher-Harris, who will be expected to take on an even more significant role this season following the departure of James Tamou.

The New Zealand international has more than a year remaining on his contract but Penrith is intent on tying him down before he is able to formally begin negotiations with rival clubs on November 1 — they can register their interest at any time.

“He’s a very good player and we don’t want to lose him,” Cameron said.

“We have no intention of letting it go past October 31. We have a little bit of breathing space for that one.”

Fisher-Harris has come on in leaps and bounds over the past 12 months and was a star of the NRL All Stars game earlier this month.

He was a cornerstone of the Panthers’ grand final side last year, as was Luai. The 24-year-old five-eighth had a breakout season which he finished as a member of Brad Fittler’s NSW squad.

While he didn’t feature for the Blues during last year’s Origin series, his selection in the squad showed he was under Fittler’s radar.

His halves partnership with Nathan Cleary was a large reason for the club’s outstanding season.

“I feel blessed to know I’ll be at Panthers for the next four years,” Luai said.

“This is my home. This is where I grew up. This is my family. Every time I pull on that jersey, I’m playing for all those things and more.

“I think it’s going to be a great season and I’m just really excited to get out there and play some footy.”

Coach Ivan Cleary added: “I first watched Jarome playing alongside Nathan (Cleary) as a 15-year-old. He had to wait a little bit longer to cement his spot in the NRL but the natural combination those two have will be vital for our club over the coming years.

“Jarome’s value to our team is more than just his individual skills. He has an ability to connect the players around him, which is crucial to our success.

“I look forward to working with him and watching his game continue to grow in the seasons ahead.”