Chester have held a number of ‘positive conversations’ with potential candidates for their managerial vacancy.

The Blues had hoped to have concluded their search for Marcus Bignot’s successor last week but talks with their number one target Neil Redfearn have broken down over finances, which include the budget for the backroom staff, and the club have now ended their pursuit in the former Leeds United manager.

Several other candidates have now been spoken to, with Chester’s board feeling they needed a ‘Plan B’ in place in the event Redfearn refused to agree terms with the club ahead of their first season back in National League North.

Board member Andrew Morris, who is taking a lead role in the hunt for the club’s fifth permanent manager since reforming, also confirmed prospective manager’s who have made fresh contact with the club over the past seven days have been spoken to about the vacancy, with Chester still open to hear from new candidates.

“We’ve spoken to a few of the candidates who have done just that and got in touch with us since the start of last week,” Morris explained.

“We’re still happy to speak to anyone who wants to speak with us but obviously we’ll be looking to move on a decision sooner rather than later.

“A number of positive conversations have taken place with the candidates for the role at the end of last week.

“Managers out of work tend to be away this weekend while those in jobs were finishing off their seasons. Talks will continue this week.”

Chester remain hopeful they will be able to announce a new manager by the end of this week but are keen not to be rushed into a decision, even though the club recognise the instability created could initially damage season ticket sales, which go on sale on Tuesday.

The managerial appointment is also seen as being crucial to holding onto some of Chester’s best players for next season, with Ryan Astles, Tom Crawford, James Jones and Lucas Dawson all considering their own futures despite the receiving verbal contract offers.

Chester’s retained list does not have to be submitted until the end of May at the latest, although talks have begun with several players regarding their futures, with academy head coach Calum McIntyre speaking to the club’s academy graduates.