Knights join Mason hunt

Newcastle have emerged as the favourites to sign Willie Mason after holding talks with the exiled Roosters forward.

Talks between Mason, his management and Newcastle representitives were held at the weekend although no news on a possible deal have emerged.

Knights bosses appeared to have changed their view on signing on the controversial 29-year-old after an apparent vote of confidence from the players.

Newcastle coach Rick Stone wanted a face-to-face meeting with Mason before talks went any further.

Knights chief executive Steve Burraston said Stone was impressed with Mason.

“Stoney wanted to make up his own mind about Willie – which is why we okayed the meeting,” Burraston told The Daily Telegraph.

“It has to be said he was pretty impressed with Willie.

“But we won’t be pressing ahead one way or another until the football committee meets on Wednesday.”

Meanwhile, a poll on the club website revealed overwhelming support for a move to secure Mason’s signature with 83 percent of fans voting in favour to bring Mason to the Central Coast.

It is understood that Mason is also due to meet with officials from the North Queensland Cowboys although it is unclear as to the stage of the negotiations.