Chester FC have signed 20-year-old defender Ben Heneghan, who has been on the books of Everton and Stoke City.
Centre back Heneghan started his career at Goodison Park but made the move to the Britannia Stadium in 2012.
He was a regular in the Under-21 Premier League for the Potters but did not make a senior appearance and was released at the end of last season.
Salford-born Heneghan, who had a spell on loan at Evo-Stik League club Droylsden last season, spent time on trial at Oldham Athletic and Accrington Stanley this summer.
Blues boss Steve Burr brought in Heneghan to increase his defensive options with Michael Kay struggling with a knee problem, meaning captain Matty Brown and Kieran Charnock are his only recognised centre halves.
Heneghan, who will wear shirt number 22, could feature at Braintree Town on Saturday (3pm) if his registration is completed in time.
