The North Queensland Cowboys are on the verge of potentially losing one of their top emerging talents.
Currently, Barber's contract will expire at the end of this season, and he remains unsigned for 2027.
Although negotiations between Barber and the Bears have yet to reach completion, the organization has gained a significant advantage in the race for the young player.
The Bears' pursuit of Barber reflects a larger strategy aimed at enhancing their back line with skilled, ball-handling players.
This effort aligns with their ongoing trend of acquiring versatile players who can play multiple positions, as the promising Cowboys talent has been competing as both a centre and fullback for the Mackay Cutters this season in the QLD Cup.
Mason Barber has made an impressive impact with the Cutters, notching 36 tackle breaks, 6 try assists, and averaging 119 running metres per game in his 10 appearances.
Since round five of the QLD Cup season, he has increased his average running metres to 134.4 per game, a significant rise from the sub-89 metres he averaged in his first three outings.
Despite these efforts, the Cutters currently sit sixth on the ladder and have a 2-3 record in their last five matches.
Meanwhile, the Perth Bears have intensified their recruitment strategy, with reports emerging that they have secured young half Jasais Ah Kee from St George Illawarra Dragons, finalizing a long-term agreement.