Former Penrith star Craig Gower is investigating a surprise return to the NRL with Canberra or Parramatta.

The dual international, who currently plays club rugby union in France and Tests for Italy, is the latest experienced half to be linked with the Raiders and Eels.

Both clubs have said they are considering signing a mature player to mentor their younger halves.

"Craig is having a great time in France but he and his wife have been away for three years now and are thinking about coming home," 32-year-old Gower's manager Greg Willett has told Rugby League Week.

"The guy is still playing good footy over there and is in good shape physically.

"There is a lack of experienced playmakers in the NRL at the moment and he'd be great for a club for 12 months.

"He would also be good in a mentoring role for a club like Canberra or Parra who have young halves in their ranks."

A return to rugby league would mean Gower missing next year's Rugby World Cup in New Zealand after being groomed for the tournament by Italy.

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