Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has denied claims they are ready to trigger a release clause to sign Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez
Reports in Spain from El Chiringuito TV suggested they would snatch the 15-cap Spain international with a big-money move after placing him top of their shortlist.
The 23-year-old is a key figure at the heart of Diego Simeone's midfield and they are desperate to keep hold of their man, who has previously been linked with Barcelona.
But Guardiola insists there is not truth to the rumours and says he expects "exceptional player" Saul to stay with Atletico for a "long time".
"Man City have interest in 125 players in the last day so it is just one more.
"Sometimes I read Pep Guardiola has interest in this player but I don't know him.
"He is a fantastic player but we are not interested in him.
"He is an Atletico player and will stay there for a long time. But he is an exceptional player."
Guardiola is reportedly keen to add midfield options to his side as they chase a second straight Premier League title as well as Champions League glory.
He has been linked to a number of big names including Tanguy Ndombele, Frenkie De Jong and Isco, but today's comments suggest he has been baffled himself by some of the rumours.