Panthers star Brian To’o joins PNG Chiefs in major Pacific signing

Brian To’o will take his next National Rugby League chapter to Papua New Guinea with the Penrith and Toa Sāmoa star becoming the latest major name to sign with the PNG Chiefs.

The 27-year-old winger has agreed to a three-year deal after the 2027 NRL season, joining the Chiefs ahead of their historic entry into the competition.

The move will also reunite To’o with close friend and former Penrith teammate Jarome Luai, who is already signed with the PNG club.

For the Chiefs, To’o brings more than his power and try-scoring record. His strong Sāmoan identity is also seen as a major fit for a club being built around Papua New Guinea and the wider Pacific.

Lorna McPherson, PNG Chiefs Chief Executive, says To’o’s pride in his heritage and family reflects what the Chiefs want their club to represent.

“He is fiercely proud of his Samoan heritage, incredibly close to his family and understands what it means to represent something bigger than yourself,” McPherson told the Sydney Morning Herald. “That is exactly the kind of person we want wearing the Chiefs jersey.

Jarome Luai and Brian To'o. Photo/Dave Hunt/Photosport

“The PNG Chiefs will be a club proudly built in Papua New Guinea but with a strong Pacific identity. Across our region, family, culture, community, and rugby league are deeply connected, and Brian represents those values every time he takes the field.”

To’o has strong links to Sāmoa through the villages of Solosolo, Siufaga Falelatai and Leauva’a.

His signing adds another Pacific connection to a Chiefs squad that is already taking shape, with Luai joined by South Sydney winger Alex Johnston, Sydney Roosters forward Connor Watson, Zac Lomax and St Helens prop Matty Lees.

To’o has spent his entire NRL career with Penrith after coming through the club’s junior system and making his first-grade debut in 2019.

He has since become one of the NRL’s most dangerous wingers and a key part of the Panthers’ success.

In a statement issued by the club, Penrith head coach Ivan Cleary paid tribute to To’o’s contribution as he prepares to leave the club after the 2027 season.

“Brian is an exceptional player, but he’s an even better person. He’s a great teammate, a devoted family man and someone who brings so much energy and positivity to our club every day,” Cleary said.

“He’s been a huge part of what we’ve built here and we’re looking forward to sharing one more season with him before he begins his next chapter.”

Panthers general manager of football Shane Elford said the club respected To’o’s decision.

Brian To'o during Toa Sāmoa's fan day. Photo/Darren England/Photosport

“We’re obviously disappointed to be losing a player of Brian’s quality, but we’ve had open and respectful discussions throughout the process,” Elford said.

“Brian has made a decision he believes is best for himself and his family, and we respect that. He’s given everything to this club and we know he’ll continue to do that for the remainder of his time in Panthers colours.”

There is still one more Panthers season to come before To’o’s focus turns to Port Moresby and a new Pacific chapter alongside Luai and the PNG Chiefs.

For more information on the PNG Chiefs click here.