There will be no announcement on the future of reported Chester FC target Ian Sharps until the start of next month.
AFC Telford United said last week the experienced defender had turned down a deal at New Bucks Head and would be joining the Blues.
Chester are not willing to comment on transfer speculation but that statement appears to have been premature, although boss Steve Burr is thought to be keen on the 34-year-old.
The Chronicle understands any deal cannot be confirmed until the start of next month for contractual reasons outside of the club's control.
Warrington-born Sharps finished last season on loan to Telford from eventual League Two champions Burton Albion.
He made 15 starts for the Bucks and was a major contributor to the club's improved form at the back end of the campaign.
Burton confirmed on May 5 the former Shrewsbury Town captain would not be retained when his contract ends at the end of this month.
Telford announced on May 18 the centre-back had agreed terms to remain with them for the 2015-16 season despite the club's relegation to the Conference North.
But the paperwork was never signed with Sharps confirming to the Shropshire Star he had accepted an offer from another club.
A statement from the Bucks read: "AFC Telford United are sorry to report that Ian Sharps has decided instead to join Chester on the offer of full-time football.
"The club had agreed terms with the player on the basis that he was to take up a coaching position at a League One club. The announcement of his signing was agreed with all concerned on the basis that paperwork would be signed upon the players return from holiday.
"During this time the players arrangements in terms of full-time employment changed, meaning that we were unable to make an offer suitable to the player and his new found circumstances.
"This of course is unfortunate. We have a strict policy of not announcing signings until the players have signed the paperwork.
"This has put us at odds with the local media who like to run stories in advance of finalising details. It is ironic that this unfortunate episode had occurred on the one occasion we have not adhered to this policy. It will not be happening again."
Sharps started his career with Tranmere Rovers, making almost 200 appearances before joining Rotherham United in 2006.
He spent four years with the Millers and skippered the club, leaving in 2010 for Shrewsbury, where he was also captain.
Sharps returned to Rotherham in May 2012 and once more took on the armband but was loaned to Burton eight months later.
He subsequently made the move permanent and was named as the Brewers' player of the season in 2013-14.
Sharps began last season as first choice but lost his place when manager Gary Rowett moved to Birmingham City, leading to him joining Telford on loan.
