The Cowboys' pursuit of Storm fullback Scott Drinkwater won't come easily, according to Melbourne coach Craig Bellamy.
North Queensland have had their sights on Drinkwater for some time and hoped to sign the the 22-year-old this week before Saturday night's clash with Manly.
The Cowboys have had an injury-riddled campaign so far, with Jordan Kahu (shoulder) the latest name to join a growing list of injury casualties.
Bellamy said that his side will hold on any deals unless the Cowboys can offer a suitable player in exchange.
"I don't know whether it's been fully knocked on the head," Bellamy told sbs.com.au.
"But we've got to get something out of it too if Drinky does leave and at the moment, that part of it hasn't come to fruition so that's what we're going to need."
Drinkwater has battled through a tough start to the season as he looks to fill the void left by former Storm legend Billy Slater's jersey.
The highly-rated fullback tore his pectoral during the final pre-season trial match and had only returned to the field last week in Easts' 40-22 win over Northern Pride in the Queensland Cup.
"I really feel for Drinky," Bellamy said.
"The other guys have done one hell of a job in replacing Billy.
"Jahrome (Hughes) has been one of our most consistent players and when Paps (Ryan Papenhuyzen) has had a chance to play there he's played the house down."
Bellamy revealed that Drinkwater was opting for a move away from Melbourne after just one match with the storm in his three years with the club.
"Drinky is keen to go somewhere where his chances of playing first grade are better and I can understand that but there's got to be something in it for our club and at the moment I don't think there is."
Well Done Bellamy.
St.George should have done the same thing when the Cowboys enticed Nene McDonald to break his contract at the beginning of the season.
The excuse of “returning home” is not a good enough reason to jump ship with no consequences.