**DEAL ACCEPTED: Penrith Panthers co-captain Liam Martin signs 4-year contract with Dolphins, worth \$98 Million as their new marquee forward**
Liam Martin, the powerhouse co-captain of the Penrith Panthers and a key figure in their premiership-winning dynasty, has stunned the NRL world by signing a massive 4-year deal with the Dolphins worth an eye-watering \$98 million.
The Dolphins confirmed the signing on Tuesday morning, hailing it as the biggest recruitment coup in the club’s short history. Martin, 27, will join the Redcliffe-based side at the start of the 2026 season on what is believed to be the richest deal ever offered to a forward in the NRL.
Speaking at a packed press conference in Brisbane, Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett described Martin as “a generational player” who would instantly elevate the team’s status in the competition.
> “We’ve been building something special here, but bringing in someone like Liam takes us to another level,” Bennett said. “He’s tough, consistent, a true leader, and he knows how to win. That’s what we want at the Dolphins.”
Martin, visibly emotional as he thanked the Panthers for his years in Penrith, explained that the decision wasn’t easy but he felt the time was right for a new challenge.
> “I’ve loved every moment at Penrith. That club means everything to me. But I’m excited about the chance to help build something up north and be part of history with the Dolphins,” Martin said.
The deal will see Martin become the highest-paid forward in the game, a clear signal of the Dolphins’ ambition to move from expansion side to genuine premiership contender.
Sources close to the negotiations said the Dolphins had been chasing Martin for months, seeing him as the perfect cornerstone for their forward pack. His hard-running style, elite defence, and big-game experience were key selling points.
Martin has played over 100 NRL games for the Panthers since debuting in 2019 and has been instrumental in their three consecutive titles. He has also represented New South Wales in State of Origin and worn the green and gold for Australia, further cementing his status as one of the game’s elite.
Penrith officials were quick to pay tribute to Martin, calling him “the heart and soul of the club.” Panthers coach Ivan Cleary said he was disappointed to lose his co-captain but wished him nothing but the best.
> “Liam’s given us everything. He’s a winner, a leader, and a champion bloke. We would’ve loved to keep him forever, but that’s footy,” Cleary said. “He’ll always be part of the Panthers family.”
Fans are already debating how Martin’s departure will reshape Penrith’s squad, while Dolphins supporters are celebrating what they see as proof their club can now attract the game’s biggest stars.
Martin will see out the remainder of his contract with Penrith this season before relocating to Brisbane ahead of 2026 preseason training. He promised he would do everything possible to leave Penrith with more silverware.
> “There’s unfinished business here this year. I want to give my best for the boys, the fans, and the jersey before I go,” he said.
For the Dolphins, Martin’s arrival is expected to signal further big-name signings as they aim to turn their well-funded expansion project into an NRL powerhouse.
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