Penrith's recent premiership success is coming back to bite them with talented centre Stephen Crichton set to leave the club at the end of the 2023 season.
The Samoan international informed the Panthers on Monday that he had opted against extending his stay at the club.
Canterbury have been heavily linked with the 22-year-old, who has been a key component in a side which has won two premierships and reached another grand final in the last three seasons.
"Although Panthers is disappointed by the outcome, the club respects Stephen's decision, and understands the situation is exacerbated by salary cap pressure based on the club's recent success," Panthers Rugby League CEO Matt Cameron said.
"The club thanks Stephen for his efforts and is looking forward to seeing him represent the Panthers for the remainder of the 2023 NRL season."
