Eddie Howe is set to remain out of work until the summer despite strong links to Newcastle United and Celtic.
Reports earlier this month suggested that the former Bournemouth boss was close to agreeing a deal to take over at Celtic - while 26% of Newcastle fans who took part in a recent Chronicle Live survey named Howe as their ideal man to replace Steve Bruce.
But Howe's representatives have shot down any suggestion that he will take on any new role in the near future - pinpointing his plans to remain out of the dugout until the summer.
"Talks of any deal being close are extremely premature," explained Howe's representative told Sky Sports.
"His plan remains to not return to management until the summer at the earliest."
Speculation over Bruce's future at Newcastle remains - despite the fact he has the backing of owner Mike Ashley.
Many fans would welcome a change of head coach even if Newcastle secure their Premier League status.
There has been talk that Bruce could be offered a new deal should he keep the club in the league but given the feeling toward the head-coach his position once fans return to St James' Park may be untenable.
