Brian To’o will leave Penrith at the end of the 2027 NRL season and follow great mate Jarome Luai in becoming the faces of the PNG Chiefs.

In another statement signing for the Chiefs, who will enter the NRL in 2028, winger To’o has agreed to leave boyhood club Penrith for a three-year deal in Port Moresby.

To’o was free to speak with rival clubs from November 1, but opted against seeking a new deal with the Panthers.

“Brian understands family, sacrifice, humility and togetherness,” said Chiefs general manager Michael Chammas.

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“Those are values shared across Papua New Guinea and the Pacific.

“To secure a player of Brian’s quality, character and cultural strength is a huge moment for the Chiefs.”

The acquisition of To’o is another major recruitment coup for the Chiefs, who have stealthily put together a top-line roster for their maiden season.

As well as Luai, To’o will be joined in PNG by Roosters utility Connor Watson, PNG Test winger Alex Johnston, code-hopping three-quarter Zac Lomax and English front-rower Matty Lees.

To’o’s decision to move to the Chiefs, however, is one of the most significant given it opens the door for Penrith to lock down other key components of their roster.

The Panthers are facing a salary-cap squeeze over the next 12 to 18 months, and knowing To’o won’t be there beyond 2027 will only help Penrith’s ability to retain Nathan Cleary and Isaah Yeo.

“The club has maintained a strong position that this cohort of players has absolutely earned the right to choose what is the next step in their rugby league journey,” said Penrith chief executive Matt Cameron.

“We are so proud of what Brian has been able to do for our community and fully respect the decision he has made.”

-with AAP