BY SCOTT DILLON

Unloved Parramatta speed machine Bevan French could be in a North Queensland Cowboys jersey as early as next week as French’s management desperately try to get the flyer out of the Eels.

French has not been seen in the NRL this year after bursting onto the scene in 2016 as one of the most exciting prospects in the competition.

Eels coach Brad Arthur has turned to other players in his back line this year but French has failed to make one first grade appearance despite Parramatta’s up and down form.

The Cowboys recently made inquiries about French and the discussions between the two clubs have continued.

Paul Green’s Cowboys are also interested in Dallin Watene-Zalezniak and have big money to play with after losing Ben Barba in the pre-season. They also have additional funds set aside that were for Valentine Holmes who is attempting to make a name for himself in the NFL.

It’s understood French is also open to joining St George Illawarra who have room to move in their salary cap too.

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