BLACKBURN Rovers have shot down reports that they are set to snap up Paul Ince.

The former Manchester United and England midfielder is a free agent after his contract with Wolves expired at the end of last season, and he is looking for one last crack at the Premiership.

Ince, 36, still lives in the north west following his spells at United and Liverpool, but Rovers have denied that they have offered the player, known as The Guv'nor, a lucrative one-year deal.

"There's no truth in that whatsoever," said chief executive John Williams today. "His name has never been mentioned, let alone discussed."

Williams also confirmed that, with talks still ongoing with Leeds to bring Dominic Matteo to Ewood Park, the central midfield area is not one of their top priorities.

He added: "In terms of squad positions and our requirements, we wanted to bring in a left sided player and another striker into the club, which we have done.

"We have one other position in mind that we'd like to fill, finances permitting, but it isn't in midfield and certainly not Paul Ince.

"We remain in discussions with Dominic Matteo and his people. It hasn't gone any further but the communication line is open."

Talks with Matteo were put on hold while the Leeds defender was on a family holiday but he is due to return this week and Rovers are hoping to secure his services before they return to pre-season training in a week's time.

Meanwhile, Rovers have also denied that Wigan Athletic have followed up their bid for Andy Todd with an offer for Garry Flitcroft.

Williams said: "We haven't heard anything from Wigan. They made an offer for Andy Todd about six weeks ago but they've not come back on that and certainly haven't mentioned Garry Flitcroft."