Panthers young gun Taylan May reveals re-signing after coach snaps back at speculation

Penrith young gun Taylan May has put speculation to bed by signing a new contract with the Panthers.

May told 9News reporter Zac Bailey the news following Thursday night’s win over the Broncos in Penrith.

The 22-year-old had set the rugby league rumour mill into overdrive a week ago by posting a photo to Instagram with the caption “last ride”, which many assumed meant he was leaving the three-time reigning premiers.

On Friday, the Panthers confirmed that May had signed on for another two years.

A product of club’s junior pathways system, May has played 25 first-grade games for the Panthers and five international Tests for Samoa.

His brother Terrell – a prop with the Roosters – has been open about his desire to play alongside Taylan, and third sibling Tyrone, at an NRL club.

Dragons coach Shane Flanagant this week told The Sydney Morning Herald he was keen to bring both Taylan and Terrell to the Red V.

But it appears that won’t be happening until 2027 at the earliest, with the youngest of the trio now committed to Penrith.

“We are thrilled to see Taylan’s commitment to the club for a further two seasons,” Panthers general manager of footy Shane Elford said in a club said.

“It’s great to see another local junior commit his future to the club and we’re looking forward to seeing him continue to thrive in Panthers’ colours.”

Despite rival clubs attempting to lure the outside back away from Penrith, May is delighted to continue his career with the Panthers.

“This club and the Panthers jersey mean a lot to me, and I’m proud to stay here for another couple of years – this place is home,” he said in a club statement.

“Having grown up in the area, this place means a lot to me and my family, and I’m not only playing for myself but for the whole community.”

On Wednesday, coach Ivan Cleary fired up at questions regarding his young winger-turned-centre.

Cleary told media “I’m not discussing it” as he was peppered with questions following May’s cryptic post.

Penrith is already set to lose premiership five-eighth Jarome Luai at the end of this season.

The club has, however, recently locked down gun centre Izack Tago, who starred as the Panthers bashed the Broncos on Thursday.

In the same game May was penalised, but later avoided a charge, for colliding heads with opposing fullback Reece Walsh, which left the latter with a fractured face.