Ryan Lowe was first linked with former club Crewe Alexandra in December

Chester City are to reluctantly allow leading marksman Ryan Lowe to leave the club on a free transfer following their relegation from the Football League.

The 30-year-old, who hit 18 goals after returning to City last summer, has two years left on his contract.

"Ryan Lowe, Kevin Ellison and Paul Linwood, who are all still under contract, have spoken to me about their futures," said owner Stephen Vaughan.

"And, if it's their wish, we'd agree to terminate their current deals."

Vaughan added: "Decisions must be made soon, so they and us can get on with our lives."

On top of the now expected departures of Lowe, Ellison, and skipper Linwood, the City owner confirmed that two players have already had their contracts terminated.

His younger son, defender James Vaughan, is set to head down under to sign for NSW Premier League club, Woolongong Community FC.

And French midfield player Damian Mozika, who fell out with the club over the final half of the season, went before City's fate was determined.

Now Lowe is believed to be interesting several League One and Two sides.

Vaughan and City manager Mark Wright both wanted to keep hold of Lowe, voted the supporters' player of the year, but he is reluctant to drop down to playing in the Blue Square Premier.

The former Shrewsbury Town frontman, in his second spell at Chester, has already been linked with moves to Macclesfield and his old club Crewe, while Notts County attempted to sign him on loan in January.

Chester's future remains uncertain, Vaughan having revealed this week that he has considered putting the club into administration.

That could mean the club starting next season with a points deduction.

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