Yesterday the Panthers axed Anthony Griffin as head coach. Griffin was appointed in 2016 when Cleary was let go.

Now Penrith want the Wests Tigers boss back in the west.

According to NRL.com, the Panthers have offered a four-year deal to Cleary.

The 47-year-old is contracted to the Tigers until the end of 2020.

It is believed Cleary would not be granted a release by the Tigers to join Penrith.

Complicating matters further is that Panthers halfback Nathan Cleary is off-contract next year and keen to play under his father again.

Nathan Cleary is one of the best young prospects in the NRL and this year guided NSW to a State of Origin series win.