BLACKBURN Rovers today quashed talk of a move for Leeds United midfielder David Batty.

Batty has been linked with a return to Rovers just 24 hours after reports suggested Graeme Souness was poised to make a move for fellow Ewood old-boy Tim Sherwood.

But chief executive John Williams has poured cold water on the speculation, insisting the England international is not a target for Souness, despite the fact the Blackburn boss is in the market for a defensive midfielder.

"There's nothing in that whatsoever," said Williams.

"I don't know where these stories are coming from but we have not enquired about David."

Though he is aware of the link with Rovers, Batty -- who was part of the Premier League winning side -- wants to fight his way back into David O'Leary's plans at Elland Road.

"There's a rumour going around that I'm supposed to be going to Blackburn but I haven't heard anything about it," said Batty.

"My agent hasn't said anything to me. You never know when you're going to be on the move in football but, as far as I know, there's no truth in the story.

"I'm staying at Leeds United."

And Tim Sherwood today also poured cold water on the speculation surrounding him.

He said: "I haven't heard anything and I haven't really got a comment on it because it's hypothetical."