CHESTER City manager Keith Curle returns to his desk at the Deva Stadium today, following a family holiday, with contract talks and looking to build for next season as his top priorities.

"The next week or so will be dealing with players who are still under contract and a lot of my time will be taken up with discussions with those play-ers," said Curle..

"I released a number of players and now that the dust is beginning to settle, our thoughts can turn to rebuilding the squad in readiness for next season."

The former England and Manchester City defenders' first signings could be players who were playing for his previous club, Mansfield Town, last season.

Defender Scott McNiven and striker Colin Larkin were released earlier this month and Mr Curle confirmed his interest in signing the duo for Chester.

He added: "I am interested in both Scott and Colin Larkin. They are quality players and if we can bring them to Chester City they would be quality acquisitions.

"There are a number of players that I have targeted, and I will discuss them with the chairman in the next day or so."

One player who will not be joining City is ex-Mansfield midfielder Alex Neil, as the Scot is poised sign for Hamilton Academicals.

Former Chester City youngster Matt Cook has joined Conference North club Leigh RMI.