Panthers superstar Casey McLean has confirmed his older brother Jesse will leave the foot of the mountains for the Bulldogs at season’s end.
Jesse McLean has been linked to the Bulldogs since June but the club hasn’t officially confirmed the signing.
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However, McLean’s brother, Origin star Casey, spoke about the move with ESPN.
“Obviously pretty gutted that we won’t be on the same team,” McLean said.
“It’ll be a weird feeling at first, but I’m super excited for the opportunity that he’ll be given.”
With Marcelo Montoya retiring and the Bulldogs losing Bronson Xerri to the Storm, McLean will have the opportunity to win a starting spot in 2027.
Jesse McLean.Source: Getty Images
There’s also no clarity over what position Stephen Crichton will play given he ended the year in the halves.
McLean appeared in four first grade games for Penrith since debuting in 2023, scoring just the one try.
He was on the six-man bench for the Panthers’ qualifying final win over the Roosters but wasn’t utilised.
He crossed for 14 tries in 20 games at NSW Cup level this season for the table-topping reserve grade side.