Exclusive: Trent Merrin's shock contract backflip to remain with Penrith Panthers

Panthers and former Test forward Trent Merrin has performed a shock backflip, going back on his decision to join English club Leeds.

In a move that will leave new Leeds coach David Furner fuming, Merrin has made a last-minute switch in plans after promising the English club he was theirs for the next four years.

But Merrin won’t be joining the other club he was linked with - South Sydney - either.

He has decided to stay at Penrith and see out the final two years of his contract.

A former State of Origin and Kangaroos star, Merrin was being groomed as a marquee signing by Leeds.

Only overnight, Furner indicated that the deal was imminent.

"There is interest on both sides," Furner said. "No contract has been signed and he's still with Penrith at the moment but there have been talks,” Furner told English media.

"We've got another quota spot and I'm looking at bringing in world-class players in if we can."