CHESTER CITY owner Stephen Vaughan moved a step closer to taking over Widnes Vikings rugby league club last night after a "constructive" meeting with the former Super League club's secretary-director Jim Quinn.

Negotiations are expected to advance further at the weekend, when Vaughan meets the Vikings' chairman Tony Chambers.

"I had an extremely constructive meeting with Jim Quinn, we covered a number of points and it is obvious that there is great potential at the Halton Stadium.

"I am meeting Tony Chambers in the next few days, and then a formal announcement will be made following those discussions. However, it is probably prudent that I don't elaborate on my plans until that meeting has taken place," said Vaughan.

The negotiations with Widnes Vikings won't alter Vaughan's status with Chester City. Again emphasising his commitment to the Coca-Cola League Two club, he said: "If a deal is concluded with Widnes, my position and energies with Chester City will remain undiminished."

Meanwhile, Vaughan stated last night that there would be one or two additions to the City squad prior to Christmas.

"Keith Curle has identified a number of players that he would like to bring into the club, and because of the current legislation, at least one or possibly two new players will be joining us on loan in the near future."

City are next in action on Saturday when they make the short journey to Spotland to face Rochdale.

Defender Sean Hessey, who picked up a knee injury in training yesterday, is a doubt for the match.

Last night Chester City's reserve side lost 3-1 to a strong Rochdale team in a Pontins League fixture at the Deva Stadium. City's consolation goal was scored by Justin Walker.

Chester included trialist defender Peter Fokes in the heart of their back four. Fokes is currently contracted to Lincoln City.