Ferguson has been a regular presence at the Roosters since linking with the club in an off-field role in May. The NRL said it would not stand in Ferguson's way as he joins the Roosters at pre-season training but that won't necessarily lead to him being able to play first grade.

An NRL spokesman said the Roosters did not need permission for Ferguson to train with the club as he is not a registered NRL player.

"The Roosters had, as a courtesy, advised the NRL and we did not have a problem with that," the spokesman said of Ferguson training with the club.  "We do not have an application to register Blake with any club but, if we receive one, we will consider it on its merits."

The 24-year-old has not played since being sacked by the Raiders in August 2013 following a series of off-field incidents. Fairfax Media understands the NRL won't stand in Ferguson's path once an official contract is lodged. An attempt by the Roosters to register Ferguson before June 30 this year was rejected. St George Illlawarra will face a similar problem when they try to register Russell Packer's contract with the NRL. Packer is expected to miss about half of next season when he is released from jail at the end of this year with the Dragons his likely destination on a three-year deal.

Ferguson is likely to partner Michael Jennings in the centres with Shaun Kenny-Dowall shifting to the wing and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck replacing Anthony Minichiello at fullback.

Meanwhile, A change of scenery is also expected to bring out the best in Feleti Mateo according to fellow Manly signing Willie Mason.

Mason predicted Mateo's move from the Warriors to Manly would see the flashy but inconsistent ball-playing back-rower fulfil his potential.

"Feleti playing at 90 per cent of his ability is one of the best players in the comp," Mason said. "I think he is going to be really driven because he has some people doubting him. He has had some bad press about how he was playing and was dropped to NSW Cup twice this year.

"For a player of his calibre that's not acceptable. Him being at a club like [Manly]  where standards are high [will be good for him]. He left for low cash, he wants to come here to prove himself and be that player everyone knows he can be. I'm more excited about Feleti than anyone else."

The Titans are set to announce the arrival of Penrith hooker Kierran Moseley. Moseley, who played one top grade gamethis year, faced an uphill battle to add to his NRL game tally, sitting behind hookers James Segeyaro and premiership-winning recruit Apisai Koroisau at Penrith.