Newcastle boss Steve Bruce has cooled transfer talk over Rangers captain James Tavernier.
The Premier League outfit have been linked with a big-money move for the Gers skipper, with Brighton also keeping tabs on the defender.
But Magpies gaffer Bruce played down the speculation following his side's 3-1 friendly win against Hibs.
The 27-year-old enjoyed his finest season at Ibrox last term after scoring 17 goals and providing 20 assists in all competitions.
Rangers boss Steven Gerrard has admitted his side could face a fight to keep hold of their key man but Bruce insists Newcastle are unlikely to make a move.
He said: “I really don’t know where that’s come from.
“Any manager will be the same, I hate it when any manager talks about my players so I won’t comment on anyone else’s.
“But I don’t know where that’s come from.
“I’ve been linked with about 32 right-backs and another two today.”
Bruce was delighted with his side’s display at Easter Road as £40m striker Joelinton opened his Newcastle account.
He said: “We started a bit sloppy but some of the stuff was excellent in the first hour.
“If I’m being a bit critical, we needed to be more clinical as I don’t think we’ll create as many a week on Sunday against Arsenal.
“I was pleased with the intensity."
