AC Milan manager Gennaro Gattuso has moved to quash reports linking him with a switch to Newcastle this summer.
It was claimed by Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport that Gattuso recently dined out with super agent Jorge Mendes to plot his next move.
The report also suggested that Mendes put forward the possibility of a managerial vacancy becoming available at St James’ Park.
Current Magpies boss Rafa Benitez is yet to commit his long-term future to the club, and could well depart ahead of next season.
But Gattuso has claimed that the meet-up with Medes was just to catch up, and he won’t be moving to Newcastle any time soon.
Man Utd identify Kieran Trippier as Aaron Wan-Bissaka transfer alternative
Gattuso said: "We often see each other, I like good food and to talk about football. Newcastle? Unfounded rumours.
"I repeat, with Mendes, it is just a great friendship."
Former Liverpool and Chelsea manager Benitez is popular with the 'Toon Army' after getting Newcastle back into the Premier League and keeping them safe.
Despite impressing again this season, he was less than convincing when asked whether he would be extending his contract past the summer.
Shane Long makes Premier League history with fastest-ever goal
"Our level has to be between seventh and 10th in the table," Benitez said.
"I am the manager until 30 June. We can see the potential. When you see the teams between seventh and 15th, we have to compete with them."
Benitez is clearly frustrated at the level of investment being made in the playing squad and is likely to want a hefty transfer kitty from owner Mike Ashley over the summer.
Newcastle did break the club's transfer record to sign Paraguayan forward Miguel Almiron in January but were outspent by the majority of top-flight clubs last summer.
Mark Clattenburg lands new role following Saudi Arabia exit
Such has been Benitez's impact on Tyneside, he would not be short of job offers should he decide to jump ship.
Asked about the win over Southampton , Benitez said: "We will enjoy it. In an ideal world I want to compete for something. That's the main thing.
"If you analyse the transfer fee and wage bill, it's far away. We'll keep preparing the team and see."
