Essendon are understood to be showing some level of interest in out-of-contract North Melbourne forward Cameron Zurhaar.

The 24-year-old has reportedly hit pause on contract discussions at Arden Street until the end of the season, only raising the chance for rival clubs to come sniffing for his services.

Zurhaar, an East Fremantle product, has seen his form rise in the back-end of this season, a run that included a best-afield outing against Richmond in booting six goals and snapping his side's losing streak.

The energetic Roo has booted 32 goals from 17 games this season despite going goalless in the opening three matches of the season.

Zurhaar is a key piece in North Melbourne's list build for the future, pairing with fellow forward Nick Larkey to form a lethal one-two punch.

His retention will be critical for the Roos, who are currently in search of a new senior coach, with their hunt potentially influencing Zurhaar's decision.

According toย SEN'sย Sam Edmund, the Bombers have made "preliminary enquiries" in regards to Zurhaar's services.

CAMERON ZURHAAR
Forward
North Melbourne
2022 SEASON AVG
11.9
Disposals
3.8
Marks
1.8
Goals

Edmund's report suggests Zurhaar is seen to be likely to remain with the Kangaroos beyond this year, with the forward's re-signing potentially to come after the club lands their next coach.

Essendon will be on the lookout to bolster their attack this off-season, having lost the likes of Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti and Cale Hooker in the past 12 months.

Key forward Peter Wright has emerged as the club's first-string forward of the future, but has lacked assistance this season.

The Bombers have also been linked to Suns duo Izak Rankine and Malcolm Rosas, Demon Toby Bedford and Giant Bobby Hill in the past year.