Burnley maintain there's been no approach from Bolton Wanderers to open talks for manager Owen Coyle.
According to local reports, Trotters chief Phil Gartside is keen to have Coyle in place before next weekend's Barclays Premier League trip to Sunderland.
Wanderers were expected to step up their bid for Coyle by making an official approach to Burnley to speak to their former player on Sunday.
However, the Clarets refuted suggestions on Sunday night that their north-west rivals have already moved to make the Scot their new manager, following the sacking of Gary Megson.
Gartside, though, still appears ready to pounce for a manager whom he recommended for the Burnley job two years ago.
Bolton have refused to comment on speculation regarding a successor to Megson, although betting has now been suspended by some bookmakers on the appointment of Coyle.