Jared Cowen and the Ottawa Senators have reached a stalemate on a new contract.

Cowen is a restricted free agent.

The Senators have offered Cowen a four-year contract worth $2.8 million per season.

GM Tim Murray said the team offered an eight-year contract and the sides are discussing the four-year offer.

Murray acknowledged he "considers four years a bridge [contract]" and would like to meet with Cowen face to face Monday in Saskatoon if possible. He last spoke to Cowen on Tuesday.

"I guess we're at a stalemate," Murray said. "I think we really stepped up on our last proposal."