Rugby league great Andrew Johns has painted a dire picture for Blaize Talagi, saying the young halfback is effectively sidelined at Penrith after the Panthers moved to sign Jett Cleary. Johns argued the Cleary signing effectively signals the end of Talagi's path at the club.

Talagi has already been left out of the Panthers squad, and the arrival of Cleary makes his situation even tougher. Johns warned the situation points to a difficult road ahead for Talagi, whose NRL future now looks uncertain as he looks for an opening into the top grade.

The frank analysis from Johns carry weight given his authority as a commentator. With Penrith turning to other options for their halves combination, Talagi has a genuine fight on his hands to find consistent playing time going forward.