The Penrith Panthers are reportedly circling a promising young halfback currently part of Canberra’s development system as reported at Zero Tackle, as they continue building one of the NRL’s deepest playmaking pipelines.
Keahn Skipps, who has captained his Jersey Flegg side, has been seen as a prodigious talent earmarked for a bright future whilst coming through the ranks at the Raiders for several years.
The highly rated 20-year-old, who has already shown flashes of potential in junior reps and trial fixtures, is said to be on Penrith’s radar as they look to future-proof their halves.
While still contracted in Canberra, the emerging playmaker has drawn interest from multiple clubs, with the Panthers believed to be leading the chase, with reports suggesting it's likely that Skipps is headed to Western Sydney.
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The move could shape as a long-term succession plan for superstar Nathan Cleary or even a possible future partner in the halves if Cleary eventually shifts into more of a number 6 role, which is a jersey he has donned in the past, including State of Origin.
With Jarome Luai departing the club at the end of 2024, and an indifferent start to Blaize Talagi's halves career at the foot of the mountains, Penrith’s plans for their halves are already under scrutiny, and adding another rising half gives them flexibility moving forward.
Having said that, the Panthers are not short of options, with both Brad Schneider and Jack Cole used to fill in frequently in recent seasons and being able to do a job for the Panthers.
Whilst Cole is on contract through 2026, Schneider is in the final year of his deal with Penrith and will possibly be looking elsewhere for a starting opportunity.
Canberra, meanwhile, are facing a logjam of playmakers with Ethan Strange looking like the Raiders' number 6 for a decade and Jamal Fogarty already making way after signing with Manly for next season to give Ethan Sanders a path to the halfback jersey.
The Panthers have never been shy in targeting players who fit their long-term system, and this potential poaching move appears another calculated step in maintaining their dominance and adding to their impressive development of youngsters that has become the blueprint for their current dynasty.
For the Raiders, it would be a frustrating blow—losing yet another talented junior to a rival—and proof of how competitive the halves market has become across the league.