Columbus Crew have distanced themselves from reports linking them with Portuguese midfielder Deco.
The 35-year old, who has been with Brazilian club Fluminense since 2010, emerged as a big-name transfer target for the Crew but general manager Mark McCullers quickly poured cold water on that speculation.
"We are not in discussions with Deco," McCullers said in a statement.
"He's a well-known player, but not somebody we're in discussions with or would probably be interested in during this transfer window."
Deco is a former Portugal national team star who had successful stints with Benfica, Barcelona and Chelsea.
