Bernard Morley says Chester could conclude deals for up to half a dozen new players by the end of the week.

The Blues retained list is set to be announced within the next 48 hours and while a first summer signing at the Deva is still eagerly awaited, joint-manager Morley is hopeful there will be new signings announced soon.

Current players Craig Mahon, Jordan Archer, Ross Hannah, Kingsley James and Matty Waters all have a year to run on their current contracts, but it remains to be seen whether any of last season’s relegated squad who are out of contract will be offered new terms, with a major overhaul of the squad anticipated.

One player who could be kept on is Gary Roberts, with talks progressing well between the Blacon-born midfielder and the club, while a handful of Chester’s successful under-19s team are set to sign professional terms for the upcoming campaign.

“There’s five or six who we’ve been speaking to but like anything, these things take time and negotiations are ongoing with a few players we’re interested in,” said Morley, with co-manager Johnson due back from a family holiday this week.

“I’d think by Thursday or Friday we’ll have a few through the door which would be good for everyone. We’ll have a platform then for which we can work to and things will start taking shape soon.

“It’s been a little bit tricky as we’re still in the process of finalising the budget as there’s just a few things which need tying up.”

Morley and Johnson, who left Salford City at the end of the season having won the National League North title, have been busy speaking to each member of the current squad, including Hannah and James, with the club’s board having previously stated the duo would be moved on this summer as part of significant cost-cutting measures.

However, the experienced pair remain contracted to Chester as it stands, and Morley says both players will be part of their first-team plans if deals cannot be done to move them on.

“They are both contracted for another season on 52-weeks so we’re working with them at the moment,” he explained.

“I’ve spoken to their agent and we’ve explained things on both sides. From their point of view, they are not going to simply walk away from their contracts and I can’t say I blame them. So, it’s one where we’ll be working with both players and their representatives over the coming months to see what can be done.

“Both Ross and Kingsley will know what’s expected of every member of the squad and they remain our players for the time being.

“Unless they get a better or equal offer elsewhere then they are going to remain Chester players and if they do both stay, then will be expected in for pre-season and will be working as hard, if not harder, than every other member of the squad.”