Scottish Premiership side Motherwell are on the verge of signing Ben Heneghan from Chester FC.
The out-of-contract defender has been linked with a host of clubs this summer after two impressive seasons with the Blues.
But the Fir Park outfit appear to have won the race for the 22-year-old centre-back.
And his choice of destination could be a blow for Chester with The Chronicle understanding the club will not be entitled to compensation.
Under Fifa rules, a player can move freely from one association to another if he has not been offered a new contract at least 60 days before the expiry of his current deal.
Chester have offered new terms, however there were marginally less than 60 days remaining on his previous contract.
The club has the option to make a claim for training compensation, although this would likely be a drawn-out process, while there is the possibility of his new employers making a goodwill payment.
Motherwell followed Heneghan's progress throughout last season with head of recruitment Martin Foyle, the ex-Hereford United and Southport manager, and scout Andy Porter, the former Chester City midfielder, watching on numerous occasions.
Following talks with Heneghan's agent Jake Speight, Steelmen boss Mark McGhee has made his move for the England C internatonal.
Football League clubs MK Dons, Sheffield United and Shrewsbury Town were rumoured to be interested in Heneghan, while National League sides Barrow AFC and Tranmere Rovers were also linked.
Heneghan signed for Chester in August 2014 after the ex-Everton schoolboy impressed on trial following his release from Stoke City.
He went on to make 92 appearances for the club in all competitions, scoring seven goals.
