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Cardiff City are thought to have agreed a £3m fee with Wolves for Joe Mason – just a week after suggesting he was not for sale.

And it looks now down to the player whether to quit Cardiff City Stadium for their Championship rivals.

The Bluebirds had been keen to hold onto the 25-year-old Mason after seeing him as a key part of plans under boss Russell Slade. Although they had told Wolves they valued the forward at £5m, it is thought it had been suggested to the former Plymouth man there was no intention from the club to cash-in during this window – not least because the current transfer embargo means they would be unable to sign a permanent replacement.

But it is understood a deal in principle has been agreed by both Cardiff and Wolves with only personal terms standing in the way of Mason following Kenwyne Jones out of the club.

Related:Cardiff City breaking transfer news live: Wolves confirm they are close to signing Joe Mason as Revell moves near to exit

It is thought Mason is currently unsure on a decision but will be aware Wolves manager Kenny Jackett has been a long admirer of his link play.

With Alex Revell told he can leave and the club willing to listen to offers for Federico Macheda, the move would see Slade significantly light on attacking options and restricted by low-wage loan moves as part of the embargo placed on the club under Financial Fair Play rules.

Recent weeks have seen Anthony Pilkington play in a No. 9 role with recent loan signing from Feyenoord, midfielder Lex Immers, also pushed forward when he made his debut in last weekend’s 2-2 draw with Rotherham.

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