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The club is trying to entice the former great into an assistant's role with both the top side and the new under-20s Toyota Cup team, where there are six hopeful halfbacks and five-eighths vying for spots.
The NRL, Super League and 46-test veteran has already had a taste of helping to run trainings and is keen to become more involved. He and the club are in discussions about the exact nature of the role but Warriors coach Ivan Cleary said as far as he was concerned it was "a done deal" and chief executive Wayne Scurrah confirmed they were down to minor issues.
"It's a bit of a no-brainer, getting someone like Stace involved," Cleary said, "and he's keen to help out. Stace is always keen to see what he can do to help what has been a problem area for New Zealand league."
Cleary said he expected his former teammate to provide valuable information and guidance to the halves in the top squad of 26, with a role through the season, as well as helping under-20s coach Tony Iro bring through the up-and-comers. They had six halves prospects in the 40-man under-20s squad but he didn't want to name them for fear of putting pressure on too early, Cleary said.
Jones is fishing at his bach at Whatuwhiwhi this week, considering the job. Scurrah said he hoped to formalise an offer in days.
It is believed the club is in discussion with New Zealand-born West Tigers Jersey Flegg and premier league prop Herman Retzlaff, who would fill the roster.
Cleary said the players were mostly fit, just a few still in rehab and all those including new wing/centre Brent Tate progressing well. Fullback Patrick Ah Van will be the last to rejoin full training next week. The Kiwis players had come back well.
The coach is pleased with the improved depth in his squad.
"They're feeling more comfortable about being NRL players. We have the same core we've had for three years so there's stability in the team and in the management, the same faces around. The combinations are improving as a result."
