Cardiff City insist they were at no stage chasing a deal for Hull City's Jarrod Bowen in January and he's not on their radar for the summer.
That's what sources at the club have told WalesOnline, despite Bowen saying earlier this month he rejected a £12million move to the Bluebirds.
Bowen, who has scored 36 goals for the Tigers since the start of last season, claimed he didn't want to move to Cardiff — after a bid was made late in the January window — because he felt "uncomfortable" following the Emiliano Sala tragedy.
Several players turned down Cardiff in the wake of Sala's death in a plane crash on January 21, boss Neil Warnock confirmed after deadline day.
But Bowen, despite what he claimed, wasn't on their radar at any stage.
"The whole situation was very uncomfortable," said Bowen.
"From my personal point of view it was never a starter, not under those circumstances. It just felt wrong."
Bowen's preferred position is on the flanks and Cardiff were chasing a striker late in the January window.
It is understood the Bluebirds still regard a striker, as well as a central midfield player, as their top priority for the summer window — with much of their business depending on whether Premier League safety is achieved.
The significant rule changes that will affect Cardiff City and Swansea City next season
Cardiff City's summer transfer plans, Aron Gunnarsson's replacement and the loan extension questions
Cardiff could seek to make the loan signings of Victor Camarasa, Harry Arter and Oumar Niasse permanent if they avoid the drop this season.
Aron Gunnarsson has already agreed to sign for Qatar club Al-Arabi, who he will join in the summer when his Bluebirds contract expires.
